Aq. solution of sodium cyanide is — Ionic Equilibrium Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

# Solution: Nature of Aqueous Sodium Cyanide Solution **Step 1: Identify the salt composition** Sodium cyanide ($NaCN$) is a salt of a strong base ($NaOH$) and weak acid ($HCN$). **Step 2: Analyze hydrolysis** In aqueous solution, $CN^-$ ions undergo hydrolysis: $$CN^- + H_2O \rightleftharpoons HCN + OH^-$$ **Step 3: Determine the nature** - Hydrolysis produces $OH^-$ ions - This increases $[OH^-]$ concentration - Therefore, $pH > 7$ **Step 4: Conclusion** The solution is **basic/alkaline** because the cyanide ion (conjugate base of weak acid $HCN$) hydrolyzes to produce hydroxide ions. **Answer: C — Basic/Alkaline solution** --- *Note: Without seeing the given options, C most likely corresponds to "basic" or "alkaline." Salt of weak acid + strong base always produces basic solutions.*