Acetic acid (CH3CO2H) is a weak acid. As a result, a solution of sodium acetate (NaCH3CO2) will be _____.
basic
To determine the properties of a solution of sodium acetate (NaCH3CO2), we need to understand the behavior of sodium acetate in water.
Sodium acetate dissociates into sodium ions (Na+) and acetate ions (CH3CO2-) when dissolved in water. Acetate ions can act as a weak base and can accept a proton (H+) from water to produce hydroxide ions (OH-).
Since acetate ions can accept protons, the solution of sodium acetate will have a slightly basic pH. This is because the acetate ions remove protons from water, resulting in an increase in hydroxide ions and a decrease in acidic hydrogen ions (H+) in the solution. The hydroxide ions impart a basic character to the solution.
Therefore, a solution of sodium acetate will be slightly basic.