Which option best describes hydrolysis? (1 point)
O oxygen in water combining chemically with substances in rock
O carbon dioxide reacting with water to form an acid that dissolves minerals in rock
O hydrogen in water combining chemically with substances in rock
water reacting chemically with minerals in rock
water reacting chemically with minerals in rock
The option that best describes hydrolysis is: water reacting chemically with minerals in rock.
To determine the best option that describes hydrolysis, we need to understand what hydrolysis is. Hydrolysis is a chemical process where water molecules (H2O) react with another substance, leading to the breakdown or decomposition of that substance. It usually involves the breaking of covalent bonds by the addition of water molecules.
Now let's evaluate the options given:
Option 1: Oxygen in water combining chemically with substances in rock
While oxygen is present in water, it does not participate directly in hydrolysis reactions. It is the hydrogen atoms in water that react with other substances.
Option 2: Carbon dioxide reacting with water to form an acid that dissolves minerals in rock
This option describes a different chemical process known as carbonation, not hydrolysis. Carbonation involves the reaction of carbon dioxide with water to form carbonic acid, which can dissolve minerals in rocks.
Option 3: Hydrogen in water combining chemically with substances in rock
This option correctly describes hydrolysis. Hydrogen atoms in water react with substances in rocks, causing the breakdown or decomposition of those substances.
Option 4: Water reacting chemically with minerals in rock
This option is a more general statement, but it does capture the essence of hydrolysis. Hydrolysis involves the chemical reaction between water and minerals present in rocks.
Therefore, the option that best describes hydrolysis is: O hydrogen in water combining chemically with substances in rock.