What type of aqueous solution is formed when solid sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is dissolved in water?

• A. A buffer solution
• B. A basic solution
• C. An acidic solution
• D. A neutral solution

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the nature of sodium hydroxide (NaOH). It is a strong base that dissociates completely in water.
2. Write the dissociation equation for NaOH in water: \(\mathrm{NaOH (s) \rightarrow Na^{+} (aq) + OH^{-} (aq)}\).
3. Recognize that the hydroxide ions (\(\mathrm{OH^{-}}\)) increase the concentration of hydroxide in the solution, making it basic.
4. Understand that a buffer solution requires both a weak acid and its conjugate base, which is not the case here since NaOH is a strong base.
5. Conclude that dissolving solid NaOH in water produces a basic aqueous solution due to the presence of excess hydroxide ions.