Ionic Equations and Spectator Ions Flashcards

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What is an ionic equation?

An ionic equation only shows the ions and atoms that actually change in a reaction.

What is a spectator ion?

A spectator ion is an ion that does not change in a reaction and stays the same on both sides of the equation.

Why do chemists use ionic equations instead of full symbol equations?

Chemists use ionic equations to make reactions simpler and to focus on the particles that really react.

Which substances are split into ions when writing an ionic equation?

Aqueous ionic compounds and acids, shown with (aq), are split into their ions.

Which substances are not split into ions when writing an ionic equation?

Solids, liquids and gases are not split into ions; they stay as whole formula units.

How do you spot spectator ions in a full ionic equation?

Spectator ions appear on both sides of the equation in the same form, so you can cancel them out.

List the basic steps to write an ionic equation from a balanced symbol equation.

Add state symbols, split aqueous ionic substances into ions, then cancel any spectator ions that are the same on both sides.

In the reaction AgNO3(aq) + NaCl(aq) → AgCl(s) + NaNO3(aq), which ions are spectators?

Na+ and NO3− are spectator ions because they stay in solution and do not change.

What is the ionic equation for AgNO3(aq) + NaCl(aq) → AgCl(s) + NaNO3(aq)?

Ag+(aq) + Cl−(aq) → AgCl(s).

What is the ionic equation for the neutralisation reaction HCl(aq) + NaOH(aq) → NaCl(aq) + H2O(l)?

H+(aq) + OH−(aq) → H2O(l).

In the neutralisation HCl(aq) + NaOH(aq) → NaCl(aq) + H2O(l), which ions are spectators?

Na+ and Cl− are spectator ions because they stay dissolved and do not change.

What does the state symbol (aq) tell you about ions in an ionic equation?

The symbol (aq) means the substance is dissolved in water and its ions are free to move.