Question

Give the spectator ions for the reaction that occurs when aqueous solutions of H2SO4 and KOH are mixed.

a) H+ and OH-
b) OH- and K+
c) K+ and SO4²⁻
d) H+ and SO4²⁻

Answer 1

The spectator ions for the reaction between H2SO4 and KOH are K+ and SO4^2-. These are present on both sides of the equation for the neutralization reaction that forms potassium sulfate and water.

Step-by-step explanation:

The spectator ions for the reaction that occurs when aqueous solutions of H2SO4 and KOH are mixed are K+ (potassium ions) and SO42− (sulfate ions). These ions do not participate in the chemical reaction but are present in the solution. The balanced chemical equation for the neutralization reaction is:

2 KOH(aq) + H2SO4(aq) → K2SO4(aq) + 2 H2O(l)

In the reaction, potassium hydroxide (KOH) neutralizes sulfuric acid (H2SO4), resulting in the formation of potassium sulfate (K2SO4) and water. Spectator ions are those ions that do not change their oxidation state and are present on both sides of the chemical equation. Thus, the correct answer to the student's question is option c) K+ and SO42−.