Question

A neutral solution forms when:
A. Strong acid reacts with water
B. Strong acid reacts with strong base
C. Strong acid reacts with weak base
D. Strong base reacts with weak acid

Answer 1

In this question, we have to apply the concept of neutralization reaction.

Complete step by step answer: We know that neutral solutions are the solutions which are neither acidic nor basic.[A solution is said to be acidic when it has excess of ions present in it and a solution is said to be basic when it has excess of ions]. When acidic solution is mixed with the basic solution, it gives rise to neutral solution and the reaction between acidic and basic solutions of same strength is known as neutralization reaction. Neutral solution is obtained from this because acidic and basic solutions of same strength, nullify the effect of each other and the resulting solution has neither basic or acidic behaviour. When a strong acid reacts with water, it makes only the solution dilute. It does not nullify or suppress the acidic behaviour. Hence a neutral solution is not obtained using this process. So the option (A) is not correct. When a strong acid reacts with a weak base, the base having less strength is not able to suppress/nullify the acidic behaviour of strong acid. Similarly when a strong base reacts with weak acid, acid having lesser strength then base is not able to nullify the effect of strong base. Hence option (C) and (D) were also not correct. So we have only one option left which is (B). When a strong base reacts with the strong acid, both having the same strength, nullify the effect of each other which results in formation of neutral solution. Hence option (B) is correct.
So, the correct answer is “Option B”.

Additional Information: Neutral solution can also be obtained when weak acid reacts with the weak base. When both of them react, they nullify the effect of each other and form a neutral solution.

Note: Strength is the measure of degree of ionization in an aqueous solution. As the acidic strength increases, acid becomes stronger. Similarly as the basic strength of solution increases, basic behaviour of solution also increases and vice versa.