The fluoride ion reacts with water to produce HF. (a) Write out the chemical equation for this reaction.

Key Concepts

Chemical Reactions

A chemical reaction involves the transformation of reactants into products through the breaking and forming of chemical bonds. In this case, the fluoride ion (F-) reacts with water (H2O) to form hydrofluoric acid (HF). Understanding the nature of reactants and products is essential for writing balanced chemical equations.

Ionic and Molecular Compounds

Fluoride ion (F-) is an example of an ionic species, while hydrofluoric acid (HF) is a molecular compound. Ionic compounds typically form from the transfer of electrons between metals and nonmetals, while molecular compounds result from the sharing of electrons. Recognizing the difference helps in predicting the behavior of substances in reactions.

Acid-Base Chemistry

The reaction of fluoride ion with water can be understood through the lens of acid-base chemistry, where HF acts as a weak acid. In this context, water can act as a base, accepting a proton (H+) from HF. This concept is crucial for understanding the properties of acids and bases in aqueous solutions.