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Multiple Choice
What is the charge on a hydronium ion (H_3O^+)?
A
1-
B
0
C
1+
D
2+
Verified step by step guidance
1
Recall that a hydronium ion is represented as $\mathrm{H_3O^+}$, which means it is a water molecule ($\mathrm{H_2O}$) with an extra proton ($\mathrm{H^+}$) attached.
Understand that the water molecule itself is neutral, having no net charge.
When an extra proton ($\mathrm{H^+}$) attaches to water, it adds a positive charge because a proton carries a charge of +1.
Therefore, the hydronium ion carries a net positive charge of +1, which is indicated by the superscript plus sign in $\mathrm{H_3O^+}$.
Conclude that the charge on the hydronium ion is +1.