Solid sodium hydroxide on exposure to air absorbs a gas and ultimately gives another alkaline...

JAMB 1985

Solid sodium hydroxide on exposure to air absorbs a gas and ultimately gives another alkaline substance with the molecular formula?

A. NaOH.H₂O
B. NaOH.N₂
C. Na\(_2\)CO\(_3\)
D. NaHCO₃
E. NaNO₃

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Correct Answer: Option C

Explanation

Solid sodium hydroxide reacts with carbon dioxide from the air to form sodium carbonate, with the chemical formula Na\(_2\)CO\(_3\). This reaction happens because sodium hydroxide is hygroscopic and also reacts with the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

2NaOH + CO\(_2\) → Na\(_2\)CO\(_3\) + H\(_2\)O

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