If solid sodium cyanide (NaCN) is dissolved in pure water, will the solution be acidic, neutral, or basic?
A) acidic
B) neutral
C) basic

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sodium cyanide is a salt composed of the sodium cation (Na+) and the cyanide anion (CN-). Cyanide is a weak base, meaning it can accept a proton (H+) to form the weak acid, hydrogen cyanide (HCN). When the salt is dissolved in water, the cyanide anion will hydrolyze (react with water) to form hydroxide ions (OH-) and hydrogen cyanide. This will increase the concentration of hydroxide ions in the solution, making it basic. Therefore, the solution will be basic.

If Solid Sodium Cyanide (NaCN) Is Dissolved in Pure Water