[Campbell Biology P.100] When a hydrogen atom shifts between two water molecules, what are t... | Practice Question

When a hydrogen atom shifts between two water molecules, what are the resulting chemical species, and what is transferred?

  • A: A hydrogen atom (H) is transferred, resulting in a hydronium ion (H3O+) and a hydrogen molecule (H2).
  • B: A single proton (H+) is transferred, forming a hydronium ion (H3O+) and a hydroxide ion (OH-).
  • C: An electron is transferred, leading to the formation of two hydronium ions.
  • D: A hydroxide ion (OH-) is transferred, producing an acidic solution.

Explanation

The first paragraph of Concept 3.3 states that when a hydrogen atom shifts, 'what is actually transferred is a hydrogen ion H+ , a single proton with a charge of 1+'. It further explains that the water molecule that lost a proton becomes a hydroxide ion OH- , and the one that gained it becomes a hydronium ion H3O+ .