Grade 11 Chemistry Problem about a Nonreaction

In summary, the student attempted to solve a problem but was unable to do so due to a lack of understanding.
  • #1
student34
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Homework Statement



If there is a reaction, write out the chemical equation for
Hg(NO3)2(aq) + CH3COONa(aq)

Homework Equations



N/A

The Attempt at a Solution


The answer says that there is no reaction. I have absolutely no idea why not.
 
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  • #2
student34 said:

Homework Statement



If there is a reaction, write out the chemical equation for
Hg(NO3)2(aq) + CH3COONa(aq)

Homework Equations



N/A

The Attempt at a Solution


The answer says that there is no reaction. I have absolutely no idea why not.

In all of these reactions. Think about what is in solution. In this case, what ions are in solution.

When you know what kinds of ions are in solution, think a bit about what kind of species they are (salts, acids, bases)
If you have an acid and a base, you might expect an acid-base reaction. If you just have salts, think about whether any of the new pairings would result in an insoluble salt.

Basically: What do you have in the beaker. What kinds of reactions do the species undergo?
 
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  • #3
student34 said:
I have absolutely no idea why not.

If you have no idea why not, than perhaps you have an idea about why yes? Do you see anything that can react here? Can you predict any products?
 
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  • #4
Quantum Defect said:
In all of these reactions. Think about what is in solution. In this case, what ions are in solution.

When you know what kinds of ions are in solution, think a bit about what kind of species they are (salts, acids, bases)
If you have an acid and a base, you might expect an acid-base reaction. If you just have salts, think about whether any of the new pairings would result in an insoluble salt.

Basically: What do you have in the beaker. What kinds of reactions do the species undergo?
Oh I see, thank-you so much! :)
 
  • #5


As a scientist, it is important to always provide evidence to support your claims. In this case, the evidence for no reaction is likely based on the solubility rules for ionic compounds. According to these rules, Hg(NO3)2 and CH3COONa are both soluble in water, meaning they will dissociate into ions when in aqueous solution. When we combine these two compounds, we have the following ions present: Hg2+, NO3-, Na+, and CH3COO-.

Based on these ions, we can use the general rule that compounds containing a cation with a +2 charge and an anion with a -1 charge will not react with each other. This is because the charges are already balanced, so there is no need for a reaction to occur in order to achieve a more stable state.

In this case, Hg2+ has a +2 charge and both NO3- and CH3COO- have a -1 charge, so there is no driving force for a reaction to occur. Therefore, the answer that there is no reaction is supported by the solubility rules and the charges of the ions present.
 

1. What is a nonreaction in chemistry?

A nonreaction, also known as a nonreactive process, is a chemical reaction that does not occur or result in a change of substances. This can be due to various factors, such as the reactants being in an unfavorable environment, not having enough energy to overcome the activation energy, or simply not having compatible chemical properties.

2. How can you identify a nonreaction in a chemistry problem?

In a chemistry problem, a nonreaction can be identified by looking at the given reactants and the conditions in which they are placed. If the reactants do not have compatible chemical properties, are not in an ideal environment, or do not have enough energy to react, then it is likely a nonreaction will occur.

3. What are some examples of nonreactions in chemistry?

Some examples of nonreactions in chemistry include mixing oil and water, combining baking soda and vinegar, and adding salt to alcohol. In all of these cases, the substances do not react with each other and do not result in a change of substances.

4. What are the implications of a nonreaction in a chemical system?

A nonreaction in a chemical system can have various implications depending on the context. In some cases, it may mean that the desired chemical reaction will not occur, which can be problematic in industrial or scientific applications. In other cases, it may simply mean that the substances will remain unchanged, which can be useful in preserving certain products or substances.

5. How can a nonreaction be manipulated or controlled?

A nonreaction can be manipulated or controlled by changing the conditions in which the reactants are placed. This can include adjusting the temperature, pressure, or concentration of reactants, as well as adding a catalyst to lower the activation energy. In some cases, changing the physical state or form of the reactants can also lead to a different outcome.

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