When we write the neutralization reaction.....
NaOH(aq) + HCl(aq) rarr NaCl(aq) + H_2O(l)NaOH(aq)+HCl(aq)→NaCl(aq)+H2O(l)
...bond formation has clearly occurred for the formation of water, i.e. strong O-HO−H bonds have been formed..... However, the metal and non-metal ions remain in solution as their aquated ions; we write NaCl(aq)NaCl(aq), what we really mean is the aquated sodium cation, which is possibly [Na{(OH)_2}_6]^+[Na{(OH)2}6]+, a coordination complex if you like where the water molecule is the donor....and a similar aquated chloride complex.
And when we get the reactants into solution, [Na{(OH)_2}_6]^+[Na{(OH)2}6]+, remains substantially unchanged during the reaction; it is a SPECTATOR that cheers on the bond-making reaction between the ACTIVE hydroxide and protium ions.....
H_3O^+ + HO^(-) rarr 2H_2O(l)H3O++HO−→2H2O(l)
If you have further queries fire away, because this is a very important formalism to appreciate.
