Which process involves water ionizing to produce H+ and OH-?

The process of water ionizing to produce hydrogen ions (H+) and hydroxide ions (OH-) is known as ionization. This phenomenon is fundamental in understanding the properties of water and its role as a solvent.

In pure water, a small number of water molecules dissociate into H+ and OH- ions at equilibrium, a process that is essential for establishing the pH of a solution. The ability of water to ionize illustrates its significance in biochemical reactions, particularly those involving acid-base chemistry. Ionization of water is a critical concept in many biological processes, affecting enzyme activity, metabolic pathways, and cellular functions.

This distinguishes the process of ionization from other choices. For instance, condensation involves the formation of a larger molecule from smaller components, typically with the release of water, and does not directly relate to the dissociation of water. Evaporation refers to the transition of water from liquid to gas, which again does not involve the formation of H+ and OH- ions. Hydrolysis, while also involving water, refers specifically to the chemical breakdown of a compound due to reaction with water, not the ionization of water itself.

Thus, ionization is the accurate term for the process where water molecules dissociate into H+