A salt formed by the incomplete neutralization of a base is called a basic salt.
Basic salts are formed when a polyacidic base is only partially neutralized by an acid. This means that the salt still contains one or more replaceable hydroxide ions (OH-) in its formula.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
- Polyacidic Bases: These are bases that can accept more than one proton (H+). Examples include metal hydroxides like Magnesium Hydroxide [Mg(OH)2] or Aluminum Hydroxide [Al(OH)3].
- Incomplete Neutralization: When a polyacidic base reacts with an acid, but not all of the hydroxide (OH-) ions are replaced by anions from the acid, a basic salt is formed.
- Basic Salt Characteristics: Basic salts possess at least one replaceable hydroxide ion (OH-), giving them basic properties. They react with acids.
Examples of Basic Salts:
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Basic Magnesium Chloride (MgCl(OH)): Formed from the partial neutralization of Magnesium Hydroxide [Mg(OH)2] with Hydrochloric Acid [HCl].
Mg(OH)2 + HCl -> MgCl(OH) + H2O
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Basic Zinc Chloride (ZnCl(OH)): Formed from the partial neutralization of Zinc Hydroxide [Zn(OH)2] with Hydrochloric Acid [HCl].
Zn(OH)2 + HCl -> ZnCl(OH) + H2O
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Lead(II) carbonate hydroxide (2PbCO3·Pb(OH)2), also known as white lead.
In contrast to Acid Salts:
It is important not to confuse basic salts with acid salts. Acid salts are formed when a polyprotic acid (an acid with more than one replaceable hydrogen atom) is only partially neutralized by a base. Acid salts contain replaceable hydrogen ions (H+).
