Chapter 18.4, Problem 49SSC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The statement that the net ionic equation for the neutralization of strong acid with strong base is always same is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

When any acid reacts with any base, neutralization occurs. Acid and base reacts to form salt and water.

Answer to Problem 49SSC

Because whenever strong acid reacts with strong base, after removing the spectator ions the reaction is always with one mole of hydrogen ion with one mole of hydroxyl ion.

Explanation of Solution

Let’s take an example:

Reaction of hydrochloric acid with sodium hydroxide is given by:

$HCl+NaOH\to NaCl+H_{2}O$

Writing all species in ionic form:

$\begin{array}{l}{H}^{+}+C{l}^{-}+N{a}^{+}+O{H}^{-}\to N{a}^{+}+C{l}^{-}+H_{2}O\\ or\\ H^{+}+O{H}^{-}\to H_{2}O\end{array}$

Thus, all ionic reactions are same if strong acid reacts with strong base.

Conclusion

All ionic reactions are same if strong acid reacts with strong base because strong acid and base are completely dissociated in aqueous solution.