Balancing chemical equations polystomics and H2O + CO2/NO2

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around balancing chemical equations involving ammonium sulfide reacting with nitric acid and lithium bicarbonate reacting with hypochlorous acid. Participants explore the products of these reactions and the complexities involved in accurately identifying and balancing the equations.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the reaction of (NH4)2S with HNO3 could yield H2S and NH4NO3 or H2S, NO2, and H2O, but notes the variability in answers from online calculators.
  • Another participant agrees with the first approximation of H2S and NH4NO3 but points out that the oxidation of sulfides by nitric acid complicates the reaction.
  • There is a correction regarding the products of the reaction between LiHCO3 and HOCl, with one participant clarifying that it should yield LiOCl, H2O, and CO2, rather than LiClO.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the expected answer for the reaction involving HOCl, indicating that it is more complicated due to HOCl being a weak acid.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the balanced equations, and multiple competing views remain regarding the products and complexities of the reactions.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about the reactions, particularly concerning the oxidation state of sulfides and the behavior of weak acids in equilibrium. The discussion also highlights the importance of correctly identifying chemical species involved in the reactions.

AMan24
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Homework Statement



(NH4)2S + HNO3 = ? - main problem

LiHCO3 + HClO = ? - check just in case problem

Homework Equations


None.

The Attempt at a Solution


I think it has to equal H2S + NH4NO3
Or H2S + NO2 + H2O

I've used multiple online chemical balancing calculators and they all give me different answers.

There's also the 2nd problem which I'm 99% sure on but just to be sure. I think it equals

LiClO + H2O + CO2
 
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AMan24 said:
I think it has to equal H2S + NH4NO3

Sounds reasonable as a first approximation (although it depends a bit on the level - sulfides can be oxidized by the nitric acid, making things more complicated). Note - correct identification of the products doesn't mean the reaction equation is balanced.

Reaction of the carbonate with acid is very similar. No, there is no LiClO produced (actually hypochlorite is typically written as LiOCl).
 
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Borek said:
Sounds reasonable as a first approximation (although it depends a bit on the level - sulfides can be oxidized by the nitric acid, making things more complicated). Note - correct identification of the products doesn't mean the reaction equation is balanced.

Reaction of the carbonate with acid is very similar. No, there is no LiClO produced (actually hypochlorite is typically written as LiOCl).

I meant to write LiHCO3 + HOCl = LiOCl + H2O + CO2
Instead of LiHCO3 + HCl = LiOCl + H2O + CO2

And thanks for the help
 
AMan24 said:
I meant to write LiHCO3 + HOCl = LiOCl + H2O + CO2

This one is actually much more complicated, as HOCl is a weak acid. No idea what kind of answer is expected (on some level the one you gave can be OK, even if technically it is not correct). But - unless you have already learned about equilibrium calculations - you shouldn't worry.
 
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