Final Answer:
hx (aq) is the Bronsted-Lowry acid. It donates a proton in the reaction, meeting the acid definition. Therefore the correct option is 1.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the given chemical reaction, the Bronsted-Lowry acid is identified based on its ability to donate a proton (H⁺ ion). According to the Bronsted-Lowry theory, an acid is a substance that donates a proton to another substance. In this reaction, hx (aq) is the species that donates a proton (H⁺ ion) to another species, making it the Bronsted-Lowry acid.
The key principle of the Bronsted-Lowry theory lies in the transfer of protons between substances. In this case, hx (aq) is a compound that donates a proton, indicating its role as the acid in the reaction. The identification of the acid is crucial as it helps understand the direction of proton transfer and the nature of the reaction, following the fundamental concepts of acid-base chemistry.
It's essential to recognize the Bronsted-Lowry acid and base in chemical reactions to comprehend the flow of protons, which determines the reaction's behavior. By identifying hx (aq) as the Bronsted-Lowry acid in this particular reaction, it clarifies its role in donating a proton and elucidates its significance in the chemical process. Therefore the correct option is 1.