Hydrated proton can exist in water as

Options

A. `H_(3)O^(+)`
B. `H_(3)O_(2)^(+)`
C. `H_(3)O_(4)^(+)`
D. `H_(4)O_(4)^(+)`

Explanation

To solve the question "Hydrated proton can exist in water as", we need to analyze the options provided and understand the concept of a hydrated proton.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Proton**:
- A proton is represented as H⁺. In the context of acids, when an acid donates a proton, it releases H⁺ ions into the solution.

2. **Defining Hydrated Proton**:
- A hydrated proton refers to the H⁺ ion that is surrounded by water molecules. This occurs when an acid is dissolved in water.

3. **Formation of Hydrated Proton**:
- When an acid like HCl is dissolved in water, it dissociates into H⁺ and Cl⁻ ions. The H⁺ ion then interacts with water molecules.
- The H⁺ ion (proton) combines with a water molecule (H₂O) to form H₃O⁺, which is known as the hydronium ion.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- The options given are:
- H₃O⁺
- H₃O₂⁺
- H₃O₄⁺
- H₄O₄⁺
- Among these, H₃O⁺ is the correct representation of a hydrated proton.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the hydrated proton can exist in water as H₃O⁺, which is the hydronium ion.

### Final Answer:
The hydrated proton can exist in water as **H₃O⁺**.

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