Question

When borax is dissolved in water :

• A. B(OH)3 is formed only
• B. [B(OH)4]– is formed only
• C. Both B(OH)3 and [B(OH)4]– are formed
• D. [B3O3(OH)4]– is formed only

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Both B(OH)3 and $B(OH)4$– are formed

Answer 2

[B4O5(OH)4]2– + 5H2O $\rightleftharpoons$ 2B(OH)3 + 2[B(OH)4]–

Or

[B4O7]2– + 7H2O $\longrightarrow$ 2B(OH)3 + 2[B(OH)4]–