Question

what are the spectator ions in na⁺ + oh⁻ + h⁺ + cl⁻ → h₂o + na⁺ + cl⁻?

a. oh⁻, h⁺, and h₂o

b. na⁺ and cl⁻

c. oh⁻ and h⁺

d. na⁺, oh⁻, h⁺, and cl⁻

Explanation:

Step1: Define spectator ions

Spectator ions are ions that do not participate in the actual chemical - reaction and remain unchanged on both sides of the chemical equation.

Step2: Analyze the given equation

In the reaction $\text{Na}^++\text{OH}^-+\text{H}^++\text{Cl}^-\to\text{H}_2\text{O}+\text{Na}^++\text{Cl}^-$, the $\text{Na}^+$ and $\text{Cl}^-$ ions are present in the same form on both the reactant and product sides.

Step3: Identify spectator ions

The $\text{Na}^+$ and $\text{Cl}^-$ ions do not take part in the formation of $\text{H}_2\text{O}$ (the actual reaction is $\text{H}^++\text{OH}^-\to\text{H}_2\text{O}$). So, $\text{Na}^+$ and $\text{Cl}^-$ are the spectator ions.

Answer:

B. $\text{Na}^+$ and $\text{Cl}^-$