An aqueous solution of CuSO4 is acidic while that of Na2SO4 is neutral. Explain.
CuSO4 + 2H2O ⇌ Cu(OH)2 + H2SO4 (weak base strong acid) CuS04 is the salt of weak base Cu(OH)2 and a strong acid H2SO4. Thus the solution will have free H+ ions and will, therefore, be acidic. Na2SO4, being the salt of a strong acid H2SO4 and a strong base. NaOH does not undergo hydrolysis. The solution is, therefore, neutral.
