Explaining the Result of Adding AgNO3 to Test Tube #6

[General_Sax]

Homework Statement

COCL₄ + 6H₂ <=> Co(H₂0) +4CL

blue <=> pink

Question: Add a very small amount of AgNO₃ to test tube #6. Stopper the test tube and shake.

The solution in test tube turned pink, so I interpreted that as a shift to the products. Also, a precipitate (proper term? a solid was present...) formed.

The Attempt at a Solution

Now I have to offer an explanation for why this occurred. It seems as though the Ag⁺ is slightly soluble in Cl^-, and the Cl is found on the product side, so was the Cl consumed somehow and thus produced CoCl₄^2-?

To me that doesn't seem reasonable.

EDIT: I somehow thought myself into a circle, because CoCl₄^2- wouldn't have been produced, for if it had the solution should have turned blue right? I'm fairly sure my explanation should hinge on the fact that Ag⁺is only slightly soluble with Cl^-, but I don't want to go off on a tangent either, so if I'm horribly misguided please advise.

 

[General_Sax]

I'm using this thread as a sort of running journal. If that is unacceptable, for some reason, please do inform me.

New equation:

2AgNO_3(s) + 6H₂O_(al) + 2CoCl_4(al)^2- <=> Co(h₂O)_6(al)²⁺ + 8Cl_(al)^- + Co(NO₃)_{2 (al)} + 2Ag _(s) + energy

How many different ways can the equilibrium be shifted to the right? i.e. Removal of product, addition of reactant and removal of energy.

 

[General_Sax]

The charges on the new equation don't balance. Looks like more Co(H₂0)_{6 (al)} ²⁺ will have to be produced, and if that holds true then I can explain the colour change.

 

[Borek]

None of the reaction you have written so far is correct.

What happens in the solution containing Ag⁺ and Cl^-?

 

[General_Sax]

None of the reaction you have written so far is correct.

What happens in the solution containing Ag⁺ and Cl^-?

CoCl₄^2- + 6HOH + 4AgNO_3(s) <=> Co(HOH)₆²⁺ + 4AgCl_(s) + 4NO₃^- + energy

Is this equation correct?

 

[Borek]

Much better, but not necesarilly correct.

AgNO₃ is well soluble. And no need to put some fancy looking dihydrogen monoxide HOH in the equation

 

[General_Sax]

Doesn't HOH = H₂O? I just found it easier to type HOH, so I did. Thanks for the help.