What are the primary ions released during acid dissociation?

The primary ions released during acid dissociation are hydrogen ions. When an acid dissolves in water, it donates protons (H⁺ ions), which are specifically referred to as hydrogen ions. This process is fundamental to acid-base chemistry and characterizes the behavior of acids in aqueous solutions.

Although hydroxide ions may be involved in other chemical processes, they are not the product of acid dissociation. Instead, they are typically associated with bases. Cations and anions describe ions in general but do not specify the type that results from acid dissociation. Similarly, the terms negative and positive ions provide a broader classification without focusing on the particular ions released when an acid dissociates. Thus, hydrogen ions are the most accurate and specific answer when discussing the primary products of acid dissociation.