Question

Write the balanced chemical equation for the reaction you are performing.

2Al (s) + 3CuCl₂ . 2H₂O (aq) ----> 3Cu (s) + 2AlCl₂ . 6H₂O (g)

Answer 1

The balanced chemical equation for the reaction of aluminum with hydrated copper(II) chloride is, 2Al(s) + 3CuCl₂·2H₂O(aq) → 3Cu(s) + 2AlCl₃(aq) + 6H₂O(l). The equation provided in the question was incorrect. Balancing involves ensuring equal numbers of each type of atom on both sides of the reaction.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks for the balanced chemical equation for the reaction of aluminum (Al) with hydrated copper(II) chloride (CuCl₂·2H₂O). The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is incorrect. The correct balanced chemical equation should be as follows:

2Al(s) + 3CuCl₂ · 2H₂O(aq) → 3Cu(s) + 2AlCl₃(aq) + 6H₂O(l)

To balance the equation, we perform these steps:

1. Write the unbalanced equation with the correct formulas of reactants and products.
2. Balance the aluminum (Al) atoms; you should have the same number of Al atoms on both sides of the equation.
3. Balance the copper (Cu) atoms; ensure you have the same quantity of Cu on both sides.
4. Balance the chloride (Cl) atoms. In the original equation, you have 3CuCl₂, which gives you 6 Cl atoms; thus, you will need 2AlCl₃ to balance it out.
5. Hydrated copper(II) chloride is a complex molecule with water molecules attached. Upon reaction, these water molecules become part of the products. Balance the water (H₂O) molecules last.

Remember that the copper(II) chloride is hydrated, which adds to the complexity of balancing the equation because of the water molecules. However, in the balanced equation, the hydration merely moves from one side to the other, converting to free water molecules.