Adding Back Spectator Ions When Balancing Equations

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the process of balancing a chemical equation that includes spectator ions. Participants explore the implications of adding back these ions and the resulting effects on the balance of the equation, focusing on the specific reaction involving bromate and hydroxylammonium ions.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents an unbalanced equation involving BrO3-, NH3OH+, and H2O, and describes the addition of spectator ions K+ and Cl-.
  • Another participant asserts that the original reaction is not balanced and suggests checking the charges as a method for verification.
  • The initial poster claims that the charges are balanced and later indicates they have found the solution to their problem.
  • A subsequent reply acknowledges a missed detail regarding the number of H3O+ ions, suggesting a correction to their earlier assessment.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the balancing of the original equation, with one asserting it is balanced while another claims it is not. The discussion reflects differing views on the correctness of the initial equation.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the balancing of charges and the implications of adding spectator ions, indicating potential limitations in their understanding of the balancing process.

Who May Find This Useful

Students and individuals interested in chemical equation balancing, particularly those dealing with spectator ions and charge considerations.

Christina-
Messages
11
Reaction score
0
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:
Physics news on Phys.org
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.
 
The charges are balanced. :S I just figured out the answer though. Thanks for your help anyway. :)
 
Oops, sorry, missed 2 before H3O+ :blushing:
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
5K
Replies
7
Views
3K
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K