Question

Write a balanced molecular and net ionic equation for:

HF(aq) + NaOH (aq)
Options:
A. HF(aq) + NaOH (aq) → H₂O (l) + NaF (aq)
B. H₂O (l) + NaF (aq) → HF(aq) + NaOH (aq)
C. HF(aq) + NaOH (aq) → H₂O (l) + NaF (aq)
D. H₂O (l) + NaF (aq) → HF(aq) + NaOH (aq)

Answer 1

The balanced molecular equation for the reaction of HF and NaOH is HF(aq) + NaOH(aq) → H2O(l) + NaF(aq), and the net ionic equation is HF(aq) + OH⁻(aq) → H2O(l) + F⁻(aq).

Step-by-step explanation:

The balanced molecular equation for the reaction between hydrofluoric acid (HF) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is HF(aq) + NaOH (aq) → H₂O (l) + NaF (aq). This corresponds to option C and represents a neutralization reaction. For the net ionic equation, we consider that HF is a weak acid and does not completely dissociate in water, while NaOH is a strong base and does dissociate completely. So, the net ionic equation will show the formation of water from the hydroxide ions and the hydrogen ions that form when HF partially ionizes:

HF (aq) + OH⁻(aq) → H₂O(l) + F⁻(aq)

A neutralization reaction typically involves an acid and a base reacting to form water and a salt, as observed here with the formation of water and sodium fluoride (NaF).