Chemical equations are becoming my greatest nightmare

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The discussion highlights the challenges faced by a student transitioning from basic chemistry concepts to more complex reactions in higher classes. Initially, the student successfully balanced simple equations using logic, but now encounters multiple possible products for the same reactants, leading to confusion and frustration. For example, the reaction of lead (Pb) with nitric acid (HNO3) can yield different products depending on the conditions, illustrating the complexity of chemical reactions. The student expresses concern about needing to memorize various equations rather than understanding the underlying principles. Responses emphasize that chemistry involves numerous possible reactions and that understanding the role of oxidizing agents, like nitrate in HNO3, is crucial. The student seeks guidance on how to approach these more complex equations and requests help with a specific reaction involving potassium ferrocyanide and sulfuric acid. The conversation underscores the importance of comprehension over rote memorization in chemistry education.
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When I was in class 8th or 7th , I used to complete and balance equations by logic. For example : 2Na+2H2O ---> 2NaOH+H2
NaNO3+H2SO4 ---------> HNO3 + NaHSO4

But now , presently when I am 14 years , (about to complete 14 though) and in class 10th , I always come across the equations which can have various possible reactions.
For example :
Pb+HNO3 ---> ?
In class 8th , logically I solved it : Pb+2HNO3 ---> Pb(NO3)2 + H2
People used to say : Very good ! You got it correct !

Now that I am in class 10th I came across same equation : Pb+HNO3 ---> ?
I solved it : Pb+2HNO3 ----> Pb(NO3)2 + H2

Now people say : Don't you know such simple reaction ! Products will be :
Pb+6HNO3 ----> Pb(NO3)2 + 3H2O + 3NO2

What is this ! :cry:
:confused: I will have to cram the equations or what ?! :frown:

Other equations :
Me: 2P+6HNO3 ---> 2P(NO3)3 + 3H2
People : You don't know such a simple reaction !
P + 5HNO3 -----> H3PO4 + H2O + 5NO2

Me : NH4NO3 ---> NH3 + HNO3
People : It is wrong ! Are you mad ! If this is correct then why would people prefer Ostwald's process of preparing HNO3 instead of this !

Please help ! :cry:

Please complete this equation also :
K4Fe(CN)6 + H2SO4 + H2O -----> ?

Assistance will be much appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
 
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Chemistry would be a rather limited science if there were only one possibility for each mixture to react. Mostly there are numerous different possibilities. In the case of the reactions involving HNO3, you have to consider that nitrate is a much more strongly oxidizing agent than are hydronium ions.
 
DrDu said:
Chemistry would be a rather limited science if there were only one possibility for each mixture to react. Mostly there are numerous different possibilities. In the case of the reactions involving HNO3, you have to consider that nitrate is a much more strongly oxidizing agent than are hydronium ions.

But it is wrong for people to start accusing me , right ? As you can see that my equations above (post #1) are correct.

Can you illustrate any logic behind it or any trick to complete such equations ?
 
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