Question

Consider a solution containing Co(NO₃)3, and Na₃PO4. Write a complete ionic equation for this mixture

a.) Co+3 + 3 NO₃- + 3 Na+ + PO₄-3 ---> CoPO₄ + 3 Na+ + 3NO₃-
b.) Co+3 + 3 NO₃- + 3Na+. + PO₄-3. ---> 3 NaNO3 + Co+3 + PO₄-3
c.) Co+3. + PO₄-3 ---> CoPO₄
d.) 3 NO₃- +. Na+. ---> 3 NaNO₃

Answer 1

The complete ionic equation for the reaction between Co(NO₃)₃ and Na₃PO₄ is Co^{3+} (aq) + 3 NO_3^- (aq) + 3 Na^+ (aq) + PO_4^{3-} (aq) → CoPO_4(s) + 3 Na^+ (aq) + 3 NO_3^- (aq). After canceling the spectator ions, the net ionic equation is Co^{3+} (aq) + PO_4^{3-} (aq) → CoPO_4(s).

Step-by-step explanation:

When we mix solutions of Co(NO₃)₃ and Na₃PO₄, cobalt(III) nitrate and sodium phosphate respectively, a double displacement reaction occurs where the two compounds exchange ions and may form a precipitate.

To write the complete ionic equation, we have to dissociate all the soluble reactants and products into their respective ions. The complete ionic equation for the mixture is: Co^{3+} (aq) + 3 NO_3^- (aq) + 3 Na^+ (aq) + PO_4^{3-} (aq) → CoPO_4(s) + 3 Na^+ (aq) + 3 NO_3^- (aq). When we simplify this by removing the spectator ions that appear on both sides of the equation, we get the net ionic equation: Co^{3+} (aq) + PO_4^{3-} (aq) → CoPO_4(s).

Therefore, the correct complete ionic equation from the given options is c. Co^{3+} + PO_4^{3-} → CoPO_4.