Question detail
Write the balanced symbol equation for the reaction between hydrochloric acid (HCl) and zinc (Zn) to produce zinc chloride (ZnCl2) and hydrogen gas (H2).
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Reactions of acids
Question
Write the balanced symbol equation for the reaction between hydrochloric acid (HCl) and zinc (Zn) to produce zinc chloride (ZnCl2) and hydrogen gas (H2).
Answer
Zn + 2HCl → ZnCl2 + H2
Explanation
This question tests the student's ability to write balanced symbol equations for acid-metal reactions. It requires understanding of the reactants and products involved in the reaction, as well as the conservation of mass principle.
Common mistake
Incorrect balancing of metal‑acid equations
Students often write the metal on the left and the acid on the right, or they forget to balance hydrogen gas and salt ions, leading to unbalanced equations such as HCl + Zn → ZnCl₂ + H₂
Ensure the metal is on the left, the acid on the right, and that the equation is balanced for all atoms and charge. For example, Zn + 2 HCl → ZnCl₂ + H₂
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