The equation below shows the reaction of hydrochloric acid (HCl) with sodium hydroxide (NaOH).

HCl (aq) + NaOH (aq) → H2O (l) + NaCl (aq) + heat

What will happen if the temperature is decreased?

A.

The reaction will slow down.

B.

The reaction will proceed in reverse.

C.

The water (H2O) will begin rapidly evaporating.

D.

The sodium (Na) and hydrogen (H) will combine to form sodium hydride (NaH).

Answer: Option (C) is the correct answer.

Explanation:

Le Chatelier's principle states that when a system is in equilibrium then any change in the reaction will shift the equilibrium in a direction which is opposing the change.

So, in the given exothermic reaction when we decrease the temperature then there will be increase in production of water and NaCl.

As a result, water will evaporate at a faster rate.

Hence, we can conclude that for the given equation if the temperature is decreased then the water (H2O) will begin rapidly evaporating.