Chapter 4, Problem 4.58P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

A general equation for a neutralization reaction is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

An acid-base reaction is also known as neutralization reaction involves the reaction of acid and base. The water molecule is employed as the reactant as well as product unit in these reactions.

Acid is a substance that dissociates in water to release ${\text{H}}^{+}$ ions. The dissociation reaction of acid is:

$\text{HX}\stackrel{{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}}{\to }{\text{H}}^{+}\left(aq\right)+{\text{X}}^{-}\left(aq\right)$

A base is a substance that dissociates in water to release ${\text{OH}}^{-}$ ions. The dissociation reaction of the base is:

$\text{MOH}\stackrel{{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}}{\to }{\text{M}}^{+}\left(aq\right)+{\text{OH}}^{-}\left(aq\right)$