Which of the following best describes the process of hydration in chemistry?

• A. The reaction of a compound with oxygen to form an oxide.
• B. The addition of water molecules to an ionic compound, resulting in the formation of hydrated ions.
• C. The removal of water molecules from a compound during a chemical reaction.
• D. The combination of two elements to form a covalent bond.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that hydration in chemistry refers to the interaction between water molecules and other substances, often ionic compounds.
2. Recognize that hydration involves the addition of water molecules to an ionic compound, which leads to the formation of hydrated ions where water molecules surround the ions.
3. Differentiate hydration from oxidation, which is the reaction of a compound with oxygen to form an oxide, a completely different process.
4. Note that hydration is not the removal of water molecules; that process is called dehydration or condensation.
5. Also, hydration is distinct from the formation of covalent bonds between two elements, which involves sharing electrons rather than interaction with water.