Sodium acetate when dissolved in water undergoes:

• A. acidic reaction
• B. basic reaction
• C. neutral reaction
• D. hydrolysis reaction

Sodium acetate, when dissolved in water, undergoes a hydrolysis reaction. This occurs because the acetate ion (CH₃COO⁻) reacts with water, leading to the formation of acetic acid (CH₃COOH) and hydroxide ions (OH⁻). As a result, the solution becomes slightly basic.

Understanding the Reaction

Here's a breakdown of the process:

• Sodium Acetate Dissolution: When sodium acetate (NaCH₃COO) is added to water, it dissociates into sodium ions (Na⁺) and acetate ions (CH₃COO⁻).
• Hydrolysis: The acetate ions react with water, producing acetic acid and hydroxide ions.
• Resulting pH: The presence of hydroxide ions makes the solution basic.

Final Answer

The correct choice is D. hydrolysis reaction.