Question

Snape next discusses molecular equations. He mentions that a molecular equation is also known as a complete-formula equation. The term molecular equation is somewhat misleading since the compounds are often formula units of ionic compounds and not molecular. Which is the correct molecular equation for the reaction of aqueous zinc II nitrate and aqueous sodium hydroxide. Note: a precipitate will form

Answer 1

Answer: The balanced molecular equation is written below.

Explanation:

A molecular equation is defined as the chemical equation in which the ionic compounds are written as molecules rather than component ions.

When zinc (II) nitrate reacts with sodium hydroxide, it leads to the formation of white precipitate of zinc (II) hydroxide and an aqueous solution of sodium nitrate.

The balanced chemical equation for the above reaction follows:

$Zn(NO_3)_2(aq.)+2NaOH(aq.)\rightarrow Zn(OH)_2(s)+2NaNO_3(aq.)$

By Stoichiometry of the reaction:

1 mole of aqueous solution of zinc (II) nitrate reacts with 1 mole of aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide to produce 1 mole of solid zinc hydroxide and 2 moles of aqueous solution of sodium nitrate

Hence, the balanced molecular equation is written above.