Salt

Definition

A salt is an ionic compound formed by the neutralization reaction between an acid and a base. It consists of positive ions (cations) from the base and negative ions (anions) from the acid.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Salts are typically formed through a neutralization reaction involving an acid and a base.
2. In aqueous solutions, salts dissociate into their respective cations and anions.
3. Common examples of salts include sodium chloride (NaCl) and potassium nitrate (KNO3).
4. The solubility of salts in water varies widely; some are highly soluble while others are not.
5. Salts can be categorized based on their constituent acids and bases, such as binary salts, ternary salts, etc.

Review Questions

• What type of reaction typically produces a salt?
• What happens to salts when they dissolve in water?
• Give two examples of commonly known salts.

Related terms

Neutralization Reaction: A chemical reaction in which an acid and a base react to form water and a salt.

Ionic Compound: A compound composed of positively charged ions (cations) and negatively charged ions (anions) held together by electrostatic forces.

Solubility:

The ability of a substance to dissolve in a solvent, forming a homogeneous mixture at the molecular or ionic level.