Acid ionization reaction

An acid ionization reaction is a reaction in which an H⁺ separates from the acid molecule so that it can be donated in another reaction. The chemical equation for a general acid ionization reaction is as follows:

<math>HA \rightleftharpoons H^+ + A^-</math>

Technically, H⁺ doesn't exist in water, it combines with water to form H₃O⁺. Thus, a more accurate general equation would be:

<math>HA + H_2O \rightleftharpoons H_3O^+ + A^-</math>

In most uses, however, the first form of the equation is used, for simplicity.