The pH of a solution determines whether it is acidic, basic, or neutral. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, where a pH of 7 is considered neutral. Acids have a pH lower than 7, while bases have a pH higher than 7.
In this case, the question asks about the pH of a solution obtained by dissolving pure sodium chloride in water. Sodium chloride is a neutral compound and does not have acidic or basic properties. When it is dissolved in water, it dissociates into sodium ions (Na+) and chloride ions (Cl-), which do not alter the pH of the solution.
Therefore, the correct answer is option 3: natural or neutral. The pH of the solution obtained by dissolving pure sodium chloride in water will be around 7, making it neither acidic nor basic.
Alert - correct answer should be 4: dependent on the amount of sodium chloride dissolved in water. The pH of a solution is affected by the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) or hydroxide ions (OH-) present. While dissolving pure sodium chloride in water does not introduce any acidic or basic properties, the pH can still vary if the concentration of sodium chloride is significantly different.