Apentix/AP Chemistry/Unit 4: Chemical Reactions/Question

AP Chemistryeasymcq1 pt

When the net ionic equation for CH₃COOH(aq) + NaOH(aq) → NaCH₃COO(aq) + H₂O(l) is written, how does acetic acid appear?

A.As an undissociated molecule, because it is a weak acid

B.As separated H⁺ and CH₃COO⁻ ions, because all acids fully dissociate

C.As Na⁺ paired with OH⁻

D.It is dropped entirely as a spectator ion

Explanation

Core Concept

Weak acids ionize only partially, so intact CH₃COOH molecules dominate the solution and complete ionic equations must show them undissociated. Only strong acids get split into separate ions. The resulting net reaction, CH₃COOH + OH⁻ → CH₃COO⁻ + H₂O, visibly differs from the generic strong-acid neutralization pattern, which is exactly how graders distinguish the two cases.

Correct Answer

AAs an undissociated molecule, because it is a weak acid

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