Is the pH greater than, equal to, or less than 7 after the neutralization of each of the following pairs of acids and bases? (a) NaOH and benzoic acid (C6H5CO2H)

Key Concepts

Neutralization Reaction

A neutralization reaction occurs when an acid reacts with a base to produce water and a salt. In this process, the acidic and basic properties cancel each other out, typically resulting in a solution that is closer to neutral pH, which is 7. The specific pH of the resulting solution depends on the strength of the acid and base involved.

Strong vs. Weak Acids and Bases

Strong acids and bases completely dissociate in water, while weak acids and bases only partially dissociate. In the case of NaOH, a strong base, it fully dissociates to produce hydroxide ions. Benzoic acid, being a weak acid, does not fully dissociate, which affects the pH of the solution after neutralization.

pH Scale

The pH scale measures the acidity or basicity of a solution, ranging from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is considered neutral, below 7 is acidic, and above 7 is basic. The final pH after a neutralization reaction can be influenced by the relative strengths of the acid and base, determining whether the solution will be acidic, neutral, or basic.