What is the Difference Between Acidic Salt and Basic Salt?

The main difference between acidic and basic salts lies in their pH when dissolved in water. Acidic salts form a solution with a pH less than 7, while basic salts form a solution with a pH higher than 7.0. The properties of acidic and basic salts can be understood using the Brønsted-Lowry acid/base theory.

Acidic salts are formed when a strong acid reacts with a weak base, such as ammonium chloride, which is formed from the reaction between hydrochloric acid and ammonia. Examples of acidic salts include:

• Ammonium salts
• Sodium bisulfite
• Calcium oxalate

Basic salts are formed when a strong base reacts with a weak acid, such as sodium bicarbonate, which is formed from the reaction between sodium hydroxide and carbonic acid. Examples of basic salts include:

• Sodium bicarbonate
• Calcium carbonate
• Sodium acetate

Neutral salts, on the other hand, are formed when a strong acid reacts with a strong base, resulting in a solution with a pH of 7. Examples of neutral salts include:

• Sodium chloride
• Potassium acetate
• Sodium fluoride

In summary, the difference between acidic and basic salts depends on the acid/base strength of the parent compounds and the resulting pH of the salt solution when dissolved in water.

Comparative Table: Acidic Salt vs Basic Salt

Here is a table comparing acidic salts and basic salts:

In summary, acidic salts are salt compounds that result from the combination of a strong acid and a weak base, and they have pH values less than 7. On the other hand, basic salts are salt compounds that result from the combination of a weak acid and a strong base, and they have pH values greater than 7.