Zn(s) + HCl(aq) → ZnCl2(aq) + H2(g) ↑

Hey there!

Zn + HCl → ZnCl₂ + H₂

First, balance Cl.

1 on the left, 2 on the right. Add a coefficient of 2 in front of HCl.

Zn + 2HCl → ZnCl₂ + H₂

Next, balance H.

2 on the left, 2 on the right. Already balanced.

Lastly, balance Zn.

1 on the left, 1 on the right. Already balanced.

Our final balanced equation:

Zn + 2HCl → ZnCl₂ + H₂

Hope this helps!

explanation: it gains negative electrons, therefore becoming negatively charged. as charge cannot be created, nor destroyed, only transferred, this leaves the wool positive. now that they have opposite charges, the two items attract.

your answer is a. the enthalpy of formation for a pure element in its standard state is always positive.