Why "aquit" isn't quite it

What kind of error is it?

Spelling error.

Why do people make this mistake?

Because the "c" in "acquit" is silent when pronounced, people often misspell it as "aquit". "Acquit" comes from the Old French word "acquiter" and the Latin word "acquitare", meaning "to settle" or "to pay off".

What is correct?

"Acquit" is the correct spelling. It means to formally declare someone not guilty of a crime or wrongdoing, or to perform a duty or responsibility satisfactorily.