Question

Write the net ionic equation for the following molecular equation HI is a strong electrolyte. HCN is a weak electrolyte. NaCN(aq) + HI(aq) rightarrow NaI(aq) + HCN(aq) (Use the lowest possible coefficients. Use the pull-down boxes to specify states such as (aq) or (s). If a box is not needed, leave blank.)

Answer 1

Answer:

CN⁻(aq) + H⁺(aq) ⇒ HCN(aq)

Explanation:

Let's consider the following molecular equation.

NaCN(aq) + HI(aq) ⇒ NaI(aq) + HCN(aq)

HI is a strong electrolyte so it exists mostly in the ionic form. HCN is a weak electrolyte so it exists mostly in the molecular form.

The full ionic equation includes all the ions and the molecular species.

Na⁺(aq) + CN⁻(aq) + H⁺(aq) + I⁻(aq) ⇒ Na⁺(aq) + I⁻(aq) + HCN(aq)

The net ionic equation includes only the ions that participate in the reaction and the molecular species.

CN⁻(aq) + H⁺(aq) ⇒ HCN(aq)