The reaction of sulfurous acid (H₂SO₃) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a neutralization reaction, producing sodium sulfite (Na₂SO₃) and water (H₂O). Here's the balanced chemical equation:

H₂SO₃ (aq) + 2NaOH (aq) → Na₂SO₃ (aq) + 2H₂O (l)

Explanation:

* H₂SO₃ (aq) represents sulfurous acid in aqueous solution.

* NaOH (aq) represents sodium hydroxide in aqueous solution.

* Na₂SO₃ (aq) represents sodium sulfite in aqueous solution.

* H₂O (l) represents water in liquid state.

Note: Sulfurous acid is a weak acid, so this reaction is an equilibrium reaction, meaning it doesn't go to completion. However, the reaction favors the formation of products, resulting in a significant amount of sodium sulfite and water being formed.