Final answer:
The balanced equation for the dissociation of chromium(III) nitrate in water is Cr(NO3)3 (s) → Cr3+ (aq) + 3 NO3- (aq), illustrating the separation into chromium(III) ions and nitrate ions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The balanced equation that describes the dissociation of chromium(III) nitrate in water is as follows:
Cr(NO3)3 (s) → Cr3+ (aq) + 3 NO3− (aq)
When chromium(III) nitrate dissolves in water, it separates into chromium(III) ions and nitrate ions. Each formula unit of the solid compound yields one chromium(III) ion and three nitrate ions. The equation is balanced with respect to both mass and charge, fulfilling the law of conservation of mass and the principle of electroneutrality.
To describe the process, it is important to note that chromium(III) nitrate is a salt, and like most salts, it dissociates completely in water to give its constituent ions.