NH\(_3\) + H\(_3\)O\(^+\) → NH\(_4\)\(^+\) + H\(_2\)O. It may be deduced from the reaction above that?
A
a redox reaction has occurred
B
H3O+ acts as an oxidizing agent
C
H3O+ acts as an acid
D
water acts as an acid
Verified Correct Answer: C.
Step-by-Step Mathematical Solution
In the reaction NH\(_3\) + H\(_3\)O\(^+\), H\(_3\)O\(^+\) acts as an acid, donating a proton (H\(^+\)) to NH\(_3\), which then becomes NH\(_4\)\(^+\).
According to Brønsted-Lowry Acid-Base Theory, an acid is a substance that donates a proton (H\(^+\)), while a base is a substance that accepts a proton.
H\(_3\)O\(^+\) (Hydronium Ion) is formed when a proton (H\(^+\)) is added to a water molecule (H\(_2\)O.).
In the reaction NH\(_3\) + H\(_3\)O\(^+\) → NH\(_4\)\(^+\) + H\(_2\)O, H\(_3\)O\(^+\) donates a proton (H\(^+\)) to NH\(_3\), forming NH\(_4\)\(^+\) and H\(_2\)O.
Source: WAEC / JAMB / NECO Classroom Archive (Record #13337)