What is the name for the $H _3 O ^{+}$ ion?
A. hydrogen trioxide
B. trihydroxide
C. hydronium
Answer (2)
Identify the chemical formula: The formula in question is H 3 O + .
Recognize the ion: This formula represents a hydronium ion.
Select the correct name: From the options, hydronium is the correct name.
State the final answer: The name for the H 3 O + ion is h y d ro ni u m .
Explanation
Understanding the Problem The problem asks us to identify the correct name for the H 3 O + ion from the given options: hydrogen trioxide, trihydroxide, and hydronium.
Identifying the Ion The chemical formula H 3 O + represents a hydronium ion. This ion is formed when a proton ( H + ) attaches to a water molecule ( H 2 O ).
Selecting the Correct Name Comparing the chemical formula H 3 O + with the given options, we can identify the correct name as hydronium.
Final Answer Therefore, the correct name for the H 3 O + ion is hydronium.
Examples
Understanding the names and formulas of ions is crucial in chemistry. For instance, knowing that H 3 O + is called hydronium helps in understanding acid-base reactions. In a solution, acids donate protons ( H + ), which then attach to water molecules to form hydronium ions. For example, when hydrochloric acid (HCl) dissolves in water, it forms hydronium ( H 3 O + ) and chloride ( C l − ) ions. This knowledge is essential for balancing chemical equations and predicting reaction outcomes.
The ion H 3 O + is called hydronium. It is formed when a water molecule combines with a proton, and it is crucial in acid-base reactions. Therefore, the correct choice from the options provided is C. hydronium.
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