Question

If you began a reaction with the following ions in solution, what would be the net ionic equation?

Na+, PO43–, Fe2+, and NO3–

Answer 1

2 PO₄³⁻(aq) + 3 Fe²⁺(aq) ⇒ Fe₃(PO₄)₂

Step-by-step explanation:

Let's consider the complete ionic equation between the ions present. It includes all the ions and the insoluble compounds (Fe₃(PO₄)₂ is insoluble).

Na⁺(aq) + 2 PO₄³⁻(aq) + 3 Fe²⁺(aq) + NO₃⁻(aq) ⇒ Fe₃(PO₄)₂ + Na⁺(aq) + NO₃⁻(aq)

The net ionic equation includes only the ions that participate in the reaction (not spectator ions) and the insoluble compounds.

2 PO₄³⁻(aq) + 3 Fe²⁺(aq) ⇒ Fe₃(PO₄)₂