Equilibrium, Charge Balance, Mass Balance

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concepts of charge balance and mass balance in a chemical solution containing various ions. Participants are exploring how to formulate the charge balance equation and clarify their understanding of these concepts in the context of a homework problem.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that charge balance involves placing positive charges on one side and negative charges on the other, adjusting coefficients accordingly.
  • Another participant emphasizes that charge balance means the solution must be electrically neutral, where the sum of all negative charges equals the sum of all positive charges.
  • Some participants argue that a balanced chemical reaction equation is necessary for writing the mass balance, while others contend that it is not required for charge balance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on whether a balanced chemical reaction equation is necessary for charge balance or mass balance, indicating multiple competing views on this aspect of the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the application of charge and mass balance concepts, and there are unresolved questions about the relationship between these balances and the need for a balanced chemical reaction equation.

whatlifeforme
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Homework Statement



Write the charge balance for a solution containing H(+), OH(-), Ca^(2+). HCO3(-). CO3^(2-) , Ca(HCO3)+, Ca(OH)+, K+, and CIO4(-).

Homework Equations



Also, I am having a trouble understanding the concepts of mass balance and charge balance.

The Attempt at a Solution



The only thing I know to do is put the positive charges on one side and the negatives on the other, and then change the coefficients.
 
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you need a balanced chemical reaction equation
 
whatlifeforme said:
The only thing I know to do is put the positive charges on one side and the negatives on the other, and then change the coefficients.

Do it then.

Charge balance means just that the solution is electrically neutral - sum of all negative charges equals sum of all positive charges.
 
janhaa said:
you need a balanced chemical reaction equation

No. Reaction equation can help in writing mass balance, but even that is not required.
 

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