Write balanced molecular and net ionic equations for the reactions of (d) acetic acid, CH3COOH, with zinc.

Key Concepts

Acid-Base Reactions

Acid-base reactions involve the transfer of protons (H+) between reactants. In this case, acetic acid (CH3COOH) acts as a weak acid, donating a proton to a base. Understanding the nature of acids and bases is crucial for predicting the products of the reaction and writing balanced equations.

Oxidation-Reduction Reactions

Oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions involve the transfer of electrons between substances. In the reaction between acetic acid and zinc, zinc is oxidized as it loses electrons, while acetic acid is reduced. Recognizing the oxidation states of the elements involved helps in balancing the overall reaction.

Ionic Equations

Ionic equations represent the species that are actually involved in a chemical reaction, excluding spectator ions. For the reaction of acetic acid with zinc, writing the net ionic equation requires identifying the ions that participate in the reaction and omitting those that do not change during the process. This simplifies the representation of the chemical change.