Question icon
11 grade chemistry others

Na{H_2}P{O_4} and NaHP{O_3} are acid salts.

(A) True

(B) False

Profile image of Aniket Singh
11 Months agoGrade
Answers icon

1 Answer

Profile image of Askiitians Tutor Team
ApprovedApproved Tutor Answer11 Months ago

To determine whether Na2HPO4 (disodium hydrogen phosphate) and NaHPO3 (sodium hydrogen phosphite) are acid salts, we need to understand what an acid salt is. An acid salt is formed when a weak acid reacts with a strong base, resulting in a salt that still contains an ionizable hydrogen atom. Now, let’s analyze each compound:

Examining Na2HPO4

Na2HPO4 is derived from phosphoric acid (H3PO4). When one hydrogen ion is replaced by sodium, it retains one ionizable hydrogen atom, which is characteristic of an acid salt. Therefore, Na2HPO4 is indeed an acid salt.

Analyzing NaHPO3

Next, NaHPO3 comes from phosphorous acid (H3PO3). Similar to the previous case, it has one hydrogen ion that can still be released, indicating that it also qualifies as an acid salt. Thus, NaHPO3 is also an acid salt.

Final Assessment

Both compounds, Na2HPO4 and NaHPO3, meet the criteria for acid salts. Therefore, the statement that Na2HPO4 and NaHPO3 are acid salts is:

  • (A) True

In summary, both compounds retain an ionizable hydrogen and are formed from weak acids, confirming their classification as acid salts.