Carboxylic acids, such as acetic acid (\(\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{COOH}\)), dissociate in water to form a carboxylate ion (\(\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{COO}^-\)) and a hydronium ion (\(\mathrm{H}_3\mathrm{O}^+\)). This process involves the transfer of a proton (\(\mathrm{H}^+\)) from the carboxylic acid to a water molecule.
Step 2: Analyzing the Given Equations
Let's analyze each given equation to determine which one correctly represents the dissociation of a carboxylic acid in water: