When Na2SO3 is dissolved in water, Na+ and SO32- ions are formed: Na2SO3 => 2 Na+ + SO32- The SO32- ions are weak bases and ionize in water to form HSO3- and OH- ions: SO32- + H2O <=> HSO3- + OH- Since OH- ions are formed, the pH will be greater than 7 and the solution is basic. Solution When Na2SO3 is dissolved in water, Na+ and SO32- ions are formed: Na2SO3 => 2 Na+ + SO32- The SO32- ions are weak bases and ionize in water to form HSO3- and OH- ions: SO32- + H2O <=> HSO3- + OH- Since OH- ions are formed, the pH will be greater than 7 and the solution is basic..