Question

Which of the following is true about the results of a neutralization reaction?

A. An acid and a base form water and salt.
B. Water reacts with a base to form the hydroxide ion.
C. Water reacts with an acid to form the hydronium ion.
D. An acid and a base dissociate into their ions.


D?

Answer 1

I don't think there is an answer. A is true most of the time but not always. It depends, somewhat, upon how acids and bases are defined. D is a true statement but that isn't neutralization. B and D are true, also, but those aren't neutralization reactions.

Answer 2

Actually, none of the above answer choices are totally correct. Neutralization reactions are too often taught as acid + base => salt + water. There are neutralization reactions the do not produce water. Example: NaCN + HOAc => NaOAc + HCN. The acidic hydrogen from acetic acid is transferred to the cyanide ion because it is a stronger conjugate base than the acetate ion.