What species are formed when acids react with bases?

When acids react with bases, the primary products formed are salt and water. This neutralization reaction involves the transfer of protons (H+) from the acid to the base. In this process, the acid gives up a hydrogen ion, which is accepted by the base, leading to the formation of water (H2O) as well as an ionic compound known as salt.

The species created during the reaction includes the conjugate base of the acid, which is what remains after the acid donates a proton, and the conjugate acid of the base, which forms when the base accepts the proton. This relationship underscores the idea of conjugate acid-base pairs.

The concept of conjugate bases and acids is important in understanding acid-base chemistry, particularly in identifying how these species can affect the pH of a solution. However, the final products of the reaction, as mentioned, are salt and water. Thus, while option B highlights the formation of conjugate species, the complete and specific outcome of the acid-base reaction is actually the generation of salt and water, making it the most straightforward characterization of the reaction products.

Keeping this in mind helps clarify why the correct answer emphasizes the nature of the products formed in acid-base reactions, aligning with the