Sure! To determine which formula represents a hydronium ion, let's analyze each option provided:
A) H3O+
B) NH4+
C) OH-
D) HCO3
1. H3O+ (Option A)
- The hydronium ion is formed when an acid dissolves in water and donates a proton (H+) to a water molecule (H2O). This creates the H3O+ ion, which is a hydronium ion. This option is the correct representation of a hydronium ion.
2. NH4+ (Option B)
- This is the ammonium ion. It is formed when ammonia (NH3) accepts a proton (H+). While it has a positive charge, it is not the hydronium ion.
3. OH- (Option C)
- This is the hydroxide ion. It is produced when a base dissolves in water, releasing OH- ions. It is not the hydronium ion but rather a common component of basic solutions.
4. HCO3 (Option D)
- This is the bicarbonate ion. It is commonly found in bicarbonates like sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). It is neither a hydronium ion nor relevant in the context of acidic solutions where H3O+ would be present.
Therefore, the formula that represents the hydronium ion is:
A) H3O+
