Sodium carbonate, also known as washing soda, has a pH value between 11 and 12 when dissolved in water. This is due to the formation of carbonate ions ($CO_3^{2 – }$) in the solution, which are basic and increase the amount of hydroxide ions ($OH^-$), leading to a higher pH value.
Understanding the pH of Sodium Carbonate in Water
When sodium carbonate is added to water, it dissociates into sodium ions ($N{a^ + }$) and carbonate ions ($CO_3^{2 – }$). The carbonate ions then react with water to form bicarbonate ions ($HCO_3^ – $) and hydroxide ions ($OH^-$), which increase the pH of the solution.
The pH value of a sodium carbonate solution depends on its concentration. For example:
Sodium Carbonate Concentration | pH Value |
---|---|
1 gram per liter of water | 11.37 |
5 grams per liter of water | 11.58 |
Contaminants or chemicals that may be present in a sodium carbonate solution can also affect its pH value. For instance, impurities such as sodium bicarbonate or sodium hydroxide can lower the pH value, while acids can decrease the pH value further.
Balancing the pH of Sodium Carbonate Solutions
Image source: OpenStax College
To balance the pH of a sodium carbonate solution, one can add an acid or a base to neutralize the excess hydroxide ions. For example, adding acetic acid (${CH_3}COOH$) or citric acid (${C_6}H_8O_7$) can help lower the pH value, while adding sodium hydroxide ($NaOH$) can raise the pH value.
Using Sodium Carbonate as a Home Remedy
Sodium carbonate can be used as a natural cleaner and water softener. However, it is crucial to use it in moderation, as high concentrations can be harmful to the skin and eyes. It is also recommended to wear gloves and protective eyewear when handling sodium carbonate.
Conclusion
In summary, the pH value of sodium carbonate in water is between 11 and 12, and it depends on the concentration of the solution. Contaminants or chemicals present in the solution can affect its pH value, and it is essential to balance the pH by adding an acid or a base as needed. Sodium carbonate can be used as a natural cleaner and water softener, but it should be used with caution and in moderation.
References:
- Vedantu. (n.d.). A solution of sodium carbonate in water has a pH value. Retrieved from https://www.vedantu.com/question-answer/a-solution-of-sodium-carbonate-in-water-has-a-ph-value-5240f2e4f3a3c
- Chemistry Stack Exchange. (2019, July 14). How does sodium carbonate raise pH? Retrieved from https://chemistry.stackexchange.com/questions/118011/how-does-sodium-carbonate-raise-ph
- PubChem. (n.d.). Sodium Carbonate | Na2CO3 | CID 10340. Retrieved from https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Sodium-Carbonate
- Sciencing. (2017, April 24). What Is pH of Sodium Carbonate in Water? Retrieved from https://sciencing.com/ph-sodium-carbonate-water-6022803.html
- YouTube. (2019, December 4). Is Na2CO3 acidic, basic, or neutral (dissolved in water)? Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-fwUE_Tbts
- BYJU’S. (n.d.). What is the pH of Sodium Carbonate Na2CO3? Retrieved from https://byjus.com/question-answer/what-is-the-ph-of-na2co3/