An '''acid ionization reaction''' is a reaction in which an H<sup>+</sup> separates from the [[acid]] [[molecule]] so that it can be donated in another reaction.<ref>Wile, Dr. Jay L. ''Exploring Creation With Chemistry''. Apologia Educational Ministries, Inc. 1998</ref> The chemical equation for a general acid ionization reaction is as follows:
+
:<math>HA \rightleftharpoons H^+ + A^-</math>
+
Technically, H<sup>+</sup> doesn't exist in water, it combines with water to form H<sub>3</sub>O<sup>+</sup>. Thus, a more accurate general equation would be: