# Adding Back Spectator Ions When Balancing Equations

1. Oct 2, 2006

### Christina-

Here is what I have:
$$BrO_{3}^{-} + NH_{3}OH^{+} + H_{2}O --> Br^{-} + NO_{3}^{-} + 2H_{3}O^{+}$$

I'm adding back spectator ions, K+ and Cl-.
$$KBrO_{3} + NH_{3}OHCl + H_{2}O --> KBr + KNO_{3} + 2H_{3}O^{+} + HCl$$

As you can see I have 1 K and 1 Cl on the left, but 2 K and 1 Cl on the right. And because I was required to add HCl, another hydrogen has been added (unbalancing the equation).
How would I go about solving this problem? Would I add more hydrogen to the left side? And what would I do about the unbalanced # of K's?

Last edited: Oct 2, 2006
2. Oct 3, 2006

### Staff: Mentor

First of all - original reaction is not balanced. Read this balancing lecture to learn how to check if the reaction is balanced.

Hint: check charges.

3. Oct 4, 2006

### Christina-

The charges are balanced. :S I just figured out the answer though. Thanks for your help anyway. :)

4. Oct 4, 2006

### Staff: Mentor

Oops, sorry, missed 2 before H3O+