An aqueous solution of borax is

Options

A. A. Neutral
B. B. Amphoteric
C. C. Basic
D. D. Acidic

Explanation

To determine the nature of an aqueous solution of borax, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Identify the Chemical Composition of Borax
Borax is chemically represented as Na2B4O7. This compound contains sodium (Na), boron (B), and oxygen (O).

**Hint:** Remember that borax is a sodium salt of boric acid.

### Step 2: Understand the Hydrolysis of Borax
When borax is dissolved in water, it undergoes hydrolysis. This means that it reacts with water to form other substances. The reaction can be summarized as follows:

\[ \text{Na}_2\text{B}_4\text{O}_7 + \text{H}_2\text{O} \rightarrow 2 \text{NaOH} + \text{H}_3\text{BO}_3 \]

Here, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and boric acid (H3BO3) are produced.

**Hint:** Hydrolysis involves the reaction of a compound with water to form new products.

### Step 3: Analyze the Products of Hydrolysis
In the reaction, we have two products:
- Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), which is a strong base.
- Boric acid (H3BO3), which is a weak acid.

**Hint:** Strong bases increase the pH of a solution, while weak acids can lower it but are less effective.

### Step 4: Determine the Nature of the Solution
Since sodium hydroxide is a strong base and boric acid is a weak acid, the resulting solution will be basic. This is because the strong base (NaOH) will dominate the pH of the solution.

**Hint:** Compare the strengths of the acid and base produced to determine the overall nature of the solution.

### Conclusion
Thus, an aqueous solution of borax is basic in nature.

**Final Answer:** The correct answer is that an aqueous solution of borax is basic.