The pH of a 0.1 M aqueous solution of NaCl is typically around 7. This is because NaCl is a neutral salt formed from a strong acid (HCl) and a strong base (NaOH), which do not affect the acidity or basicity of the solution.
Comparing Different Salts
When considering the pH of other salts, such as NH₄Cl, the situation changes:
- NH₄Cl: This salt is formed from a weak base (NH₃) and a strong acid (HCl). Its solution tends to be acidic, with a pH lower than 7.
- NaCl: As mentioned, remains neutral with a pH around 7.
Summary of pH Values
In summary, the order of pH for the given salts in a 0.1 M solution would be:
- NaCl - pH ≈ 7 (neutral)
- NH₄Cl - pH < 7 (acidic)
Thus, the pH values reflect the nature of the salts and their components in solution.