The aqueous solution of sodium acetate is basic. Explain.

Sodium acetate, NaCH3COO, is the sodium salt of acetic acid, CH3COOH. When sodium acetate dissolves in water, it dissociates into its constituent ions:

NaCH3COO(s) → Na⁺(aq) + CH3COO⁻(aq)

The CH3COO⁻ ion, also known as acetate ion, is the conjugate base of acetic acid. Acetate ions can react with water in a reversible manner:

CH3COO⁻(aq) + H2O(l) ⇌ CH3COOH(aq) + OH⁻(aq)

This reaction produces hydroxide ions (OH⁻), which increases the concentration of hydroxide ions in the solution, leading to an increase in pH. Therefore, the presence of acetate ions makes the solution slightly basic.

Additionally, sodium ions (Na⁺) do not significantly affect the pH of the solution, as they are the conjugate acid of a strong base (NaOH), which does not undergo significant hydrolysis in water.

Overall, the aqueous solution of sodium acetate is basic due to the presence of acetate ions that react with water to produce hydroxide ions.