Balancing Ionic Equations and Charges

This video tutorial guides viewers through writing a balanced net ionic equation for the reaction between copper(II) nitrate and sodium carbonate. It begins with balancing the molecular equation, then discusses the solubility of the compounds involved. The tutorial explains how to split strong electrolytes into ions to form the complete ionic equation and identifies spectator ions to derive the net ionic equation. The video concludes by ensuring that charges are balanced in the final equation.

What is the first step in writing a balanced net ionic equation?

• Identify spectator ions

• Balance the molecular equation

• Write the complete ionic equation

• Determine the solubility of compounds

How many sodium atoms are needed to balance the molecular equation for the reaction between copper(II) nitrate and sodium carbonate?

• Three

• Four

• Two

• One

Which of the following compounds is generally insoluble?

• Sodium carbonate

• Potassium carbonate

• Copper(II) carbonate

• Nitrate compounds

What is the charge of the copper ion in the reaction?

• 2-

• 2+

• 1+

• 1-

Which ions are considered spectator ions in this reaction?

• Copper(II) carbonate

• Sodium ions

• Carbonate ions

• Copper ions

What is the net ionic equation for the reaction between copper(II) nitrate and sodium carbonate?

• Cu^2+ + 2NO3- -> Cu(NO3)2

• 2Na+ + 2NO3- -> Na2NO3

• Cu^2+ + CO3^2- -> CuCO3

• Na2CO3 -> 2Na+ + CO3^2-

Why do we not split solids into ions in the net ionic equation?

• Solids are always spectator ions

• Solids have no charge

• Solids do not dissociate in water

• Solids are not part of the reaction

What is the net charge on both sides of the net ionic equation?

• 1-

• 1+

• 0

• 2+

What happens to the spectator ions in the net ionic equation?

• They are removed from the equation

• They form a new compound

• They change their charge

• They are included in the final equation

What ensures that the net ionic equation is balanced?

• Equal number of atoms on both sides

• Equal number of molecules on both sides

• Equal number of compounds on both sides

• Equal number of electrons on both sides