Write the formulae of sodium chloride and sodium carbonate. Explain why an aqueous solution of sodium chloride is neutral but an aqueous solution of sodium carbonate is basic (or alkaline). Write chemical equations of the reactions involved.

Sodium chloride - NaCl. Sodium carbonate - Na2CO3.

Aqueous solution of sodium chloride is neutral because it is formed from strong acid and strong base. The aqueous solution of sodium carbonate is alkaline because it is prepared fromm the reaction of weak acid and a strong base.

Na2CO3(s) + 2H2O(l) → 2NaOH(aq) + H2CO3(aq)