The chemical reaction between HCl (hydrochloric acid) and NaOH (sodium hydroxide) is a neutralization reaction.

Here's the balanced chemical equation:

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

Explanation:

* HCl(aq): Hydrochloric acid in aqueous solution (dissolved in water)

* NaOH(aq): Sodium hydroxide in aqueous solution

* NaCl(aq): Sodium chloride (table salt) in aqueous solution

* H₂O(l): Liquid water

What happens:

1. Hydrogen ions (H+) from HCl react with hydroxide ions (OH-) from NaOH.

2. These ions combine to form water (H₂O).

3. The remaining ions, sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-), form sodium chloride (NaCl).

Key points:

* This reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat.

* The products, salt and water, are neutral. This is why it's called a neutralization reaction.

* The reaction is irreversible, meaning it proceeds to completion.

Let me know if you have any other questions!