Question

Write the equation for the dissolution of sodium carbonate in water as found in your laboratory guide.

Answer 1

Na₂CO₃(s) → 2Na⁺(aq) + CO₃²⁻(aq)
The sodium carbonate formed from a strong base and a weak acid. Hydrolysis is subjected to the anion of a weak acid.

CO₃²⁻ + H₂O ⇄ HCO₃⁻ + OH⁻
HCO₃⁻ + H₂O ⇄ H₂CO₃ + OH⁻

pH>7 alkaline solution

2Na⁺ + CO₃²⁻ + 2H₂O ⇄ 2Na⁺ + 2OH⁻ + H₂CO₃