Question

Predict the \(\mathrm{pH}(>7,<7, \approx 7)\) of a \(\mathrm{NaHCO}_{3}\) solution.

Short answer

The pH of a \(\mathrm{NaHCO_3}\) solution should be greater than 7 (basic)

Step-by-step solution

Identify the acid and base that formed the salt

The \(\mathrm{NaHCO_3}\) is a salt formed from sodium hydroxide (a strong base) and carbonic acid (a weak acid). Therefore, it's important to recognize that the solution will be on the basic side because a solution of a salt formed from a strong base and a weak acid is basic.

General prediction of pH

Since the solution will be basic, the pH should be greater than 7. A more precise prediction would require specific information about the concentration, which is not given in this exercise.