Question

What is the ionization reaction of hydrochloric acid (HCl)?

a) HCl→H⁺+Cl⁻
b) HCl+H₂O→H₃O++Cl⁻
c) HCl+OH −→H₂O+Cl ⁻
d) HCl+H₂O→H₃O⁺+OH⁻

Answer 1

The ionization reaction of HCl when dissolved in water is HCl(aq) + H₂O(l) → H₃O⁺(aq) + Cl⁻(aq), where HCl dissociates into hydronium ions (H₃O⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻).

The correct answer is B.

Step-by-step explanation:

The ionization reaction of hydrochloric acid (HCl) in water is represented by:

HCl(aq) + H₂O(l) → H₃O⁺(aq) + Cl⁻(aq)

In this reaction, hydrochloric acid dissociates into hydrogen ions (H+) and chloride ions (Cl⁻) when dissolved in water. The hydrogen ions then react with water molecules to form hydronium ions (H3O+), resulting in the release of H+ ions into the solution. This is a clear demonstration of how HCl behaves as a strong acid, as it completely dissociates in an aqueous solution.