Final answer:
The balanced chemical equation for the reaction of acetic acid with calcium hydroxide to produce calcium acetate and water is 2CH3CO2H + Ca(OH)2 → Ca(CH3CO2)2 + 2H2O, which corresponds to option a).
Step-by-step explanation:
The balanced chemical equation for the reaction between acetic acid (CH3CO2H) and calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2] to produce calcium acetate [Ca(CH3CO2)2] and water (H2O) is given by option a):
2CH3CO2H + Ca(OH)2 → Ca(CH3CO2)2 + 2H2O
This reaction is an example of a neutralization reaction where an acid reacts with a base to produce a salt and water. It is important in various applications including the use of calcium acetate as a mordant in dyeing fabrics.