Final answer:
The equation for the reaction associated with the Kb₂ of the carbonate ion CO₃²- is CO₃²- + H₂O ⇌ HCO₃⁻ + OH⁻.
Step-by-step explanation:
This reaction is an example of a hydrolysis reaction, where the carbonate ion reacts with water to produce both acidic (HCO₃⁻) and basic (OH⁻) species. The equilibrium between the reactants and products in this reaction is determined by the value of Kb₂, which represents the equilibrium constant for the reaction.
Understanding the reaction associated with the Kb₂ of the carbonate ion is important in studying the properties and behavior of carbonate compounds and their role in various chemical processes, such as acid-base reactions and the buffering capacity of solutions.