Question

Write the net ionic equation for the precipitation reaction that occurs when aqueous solutions of potassium hydroxide and nickel(II) acetate are combined.

Answer 1

Answer: The net ionic equation is written below.

Explanation:

Net ionic equation of any reaction does not include any spectator ions.

Spectator ions are defined as the ions which does not get involved in a chemical equation. They are found on both the sides of the chemical reaction when it is present in ionic form.

The chemical equation for the reaction of nickel (II) acetate and potassium hydroxide is given as:

$Ni(CH_3COO)_2(aq.)+2KOH(aq.)\rightarrow 2CH_3COOK(aq.)+Ni(NO_3)_2(s)$

Ionic form of the above equation follows:

$Ni^{2+}(aq.)+2CH_3COO^-(aq.)+2K^+(aq.)+2OH^-(aq.)\rightarrow 2CH_3COO^-(aq.)+2K^+(aq.)+Ni(OH)_2(s)$

As, acetate and potassium ions are present on both the sides of the reaction. Thus, it will not be present in the net ionic equation and are spectator ions.

The net ionic equation for the above reaction follows:

$Ni^{2+}(aq.)+2OH^-(aq.)\rightarrow Ni(OH)_2(s)$

Hence, the net ionic equation is written above.