To determine which equation represents a neutralization reaction, we need to understand what a neutralization reaction is. A neutralization reaction typically involves an acid reacting with a base to produce a salt and water. Let's examine each of the given equations step by step:
1. Equation 1: [tex]\( 2 H_2 + O_2 \rightarrow 2 H_2 O \)[/tex]
- This reaction involves hydrogen gas (H₂) reacting with oxygen gas (O₂) to form water (H₂O). This is a combustion reaction, not a neutralization reaction.
2. Equation 2: [tex]\( 2 H_2 O_2 \rightarrow 2 H_2 O + O_2 \)[/tex]
- This reaction involves hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) decomposing into water (H₂O) and oxygen gas (O₂). This is a decomposition reaction, not a neutralization reaction.
3. Equation 3: [tex]\( HCl + KOH \rightarrow KCl + H_2 O \)[/tex]
- This reaction involves hydrochloric acid (HCl) reacting with potassium hydroxide (KOH) to form potassium chloride (KCl) and water (H₂O). Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is an acid and potassium hydroxide (KOH) is a base. The products are a salt (KCl) and water (H₂O), which is the hallmark of a neutralization reaction.
So, by analyzing the nature of each chemical reaction, we can conclude that the equation representing a neutralization reaction is:
[tex]$ HCl + KOH \rightarrow KCl + H_2 O $[/tex]
Therefore, the correct answer is the third equation.
