Question

Write a net ionic equation to show that benzoic acid, C6H5COOH, behaves as a Brønsted-Lowry acid in water.

Answer 1

Answer:

H⁺(aq) + H₂O(l) ⇄ H₃O⁺(aq)

Explanation:

According to Brönsted-Lowry acid-base theory, an acid is a substance that donates H⁺. Let's consider the molecular equation showing that benzoic acid is a Brönsted-Lowry acid.

C₆H₅COOH(aq) + H₂O(l) ⇄ C₆H₅COO⁻(aq) + H₃O⁺(aq)

The complete ionic equation includes all the ions and molecular species.

C₆H₅COO⁻(aq) + H⁺(aq) + H₂O(l) ⇄ C₆H₅COO⁻(aq) + H₃O⁺(aq)

The net ionic equation includes only the ions that participate in the reaction and the molecular species.

H⁺(aq) + H₂O(l) ⇄ H₃O⁺(aq)