Constructing balanced ionic equations

In summary, the balanced equation for the reaction between SO2, Br2, and H2O is SO2 + Br2 + 2H2O ----> SO4^-2 + 2Br^-1 + 4H^+1. The book's answer of SO2 + Br2 ----> SO4^-2 + 2Br^-1 is not correct as it does not balance the oxygen and charge on both sides.
  • #1
Priyadarshini
191
4

Homework Statement


balance:
SO2 + Br2 + H2O -----> SO4 ^-2 + Br^-1 + H^+1

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I think the answer is:
SO2 + Br2 + 2H2O ----> SO4^-2 + 2Br^-1 + 2H^+1
But the answer in the book is:
SO2 + Br2 ----> SO4^-2 + 2Br^-1
Is my answer the correct one?
 
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  • #2
Book answer can't be correct as the oxygen is not balanced.

Not that your answer is OK - count hydrogens on both sides, and see if the charge is balanced. Chances are it was just a typo on your side.
 
  • #3
Borek said:
Book answer can't be correct as the oxygen is not balanced.

Not that your answer is OK - count hydrogens on both sides, and see if the charge is balanced. Chances are it was just a typo on your side.
Oh yeah, sorry. It should be SO2 + Br2 + 2H2O ----> SO4^-2 + 2Br^-1 + 4H^+1. Thanks!
 

1. What is a balanced ionic equation?

A balanced ionic equation is a chemical equation that shows the complete, balanced chemical reaction between ions in a solution. It includes the chemical formulas of all the reactants and products, as well as the charges of the ions.

2. Why is it important to balance ionic equations?

Balancing ionic equations is important because it ensures that the number of atoms and charges on the reactant side of the equation is equal to the number of atoms and charges on the product side. This is necessary in order to accurately represent the chemical reaction and ensure that the law of conservation of mass and charge is followed.

3. How do you construct a balanced ionic equation?

To construct a balanced ionic equation, you need to first write out the chemical formulas of all the reactants and products. Then, balance the number of atoms and charges on each side by adding coefficients in front of the formulas. Finally, check that the charges and number of atoms are equal on both sides to ensure the equation is balanced.

4. What are spectator ions in a balanced ionic equation?

Spectator ions are ions that appear on both the reactant and product side of a balanced ionic equation and do not participate in the overall chemical reaction. They are present in the solution but do not undergo any change during the reaction.

5. Can you construct a balanced ionic equation for a reaction that takes place in a gas or solid phase?

Yes, it is possible to construct a balanced ionic equation for a reaction that takes place in a gas or solid phase. However, in these cases, the reaction may not involve ions and therefore may not be considered an ionic equation. Instead, it would be a balanced chemical equation representing the reaction between molecules or atoms.

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