Final answer:
The behavior of anhydrous salts with doubly or triply charged cations in water varies according to solubility rules. They can either dissolve completely, partially dissolve, not dissolve, or react with water to form a precipitate. Solubility of a specific salt in water depends on its composition and the solubility rules.
Step-by-step explanation:
The behavior of anhydrous salts containing doubly or triply charged cations, such as those from group 2 and 3 and many transition metal ions, in water can vary. These salts may:
- Dissolve completely in water if they are soluble according to solubility rules.
- Partially dissolve in water if they are sparingly soluble.
- Not dissolve in water if they are classified as insoluble.
- React with water to form a precipitate if they are insoluble and a double-replacement reaction occurs.
However, anhydrous salts with group 2 or 3 cations behave differently. Sulfates formed with Ca2+, Sr2+, and Ba2+ or with specific transition metals are exceptions and are typically insoluble, leading to precipitate formation. Additionally, carbonates, phosphates, and hydroxides with most doubly or triply charged cations are usually insoluble and may not dissolve in water.