Final answer:
A neutralization reaction occurs when an acid and a base react to form water and a salt. The hydronium ions from the acid and the hydroxide ions from the base combine to create water, thereby neutralizing each other. An example is the reaction between hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide, which produces water and sodium chloride.
Step-by-step explanation:
A neutralization reaction is a type of chemical reaction in which an acid and a base react to form water and a salt, thereby neutralizing each other. The concept lies in the fact that the hydronium ions from the acid and the hydroxide ions from the base combine to form water, which is neutral. Consequently, the remaining ions form a salt.
For example, the reaction between hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a neutralization reaction. Here, HCl + NaOH -> H2O + NaCl. This reaction shows that hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide combine to form water and sodium chloride, which is a neutral salt.
Learn more about Neutralization reaction