Writing Equations: Balancing & Reaction Types

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around writing balanced chemical equations and identifying the types of reactions (single replacement, double replacement, decomposition, or synthesis) for specific examples involving sulfuric acid, potassium hydroxide, and zinc. The scope includes homework-related problem-solving and chemical reaction classification.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant attempts to balance the equations for sulfuric acid with potassium hydroxide and zinc, but expresses difficulty in balancing the first equation and determining the states of the products.
  • Another participant comments on the stability of the sulfate ion (SO42-), suggesting it influences the reaction products.
  • Some participants clarify that the reactions in question are not oxidation/reduction reactions, noting the absence of sulfide ions (S-2) in the products.
  • A later reply proposes balanced equations for both reactions, identifying the first as a double replacement and the second as a single replacement, while also suggesting the state of zinc sulfate may be aqueous rather than solid.
  • Another participant agrees that the reactants and products are correct and balanced, but emphasizes that the first reaction can be classified as neutralization.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the balanced equations and reaction types, but there is some contention regarding the classification of the second reaction as a redox reaction and the physical states of the products.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the determination of product states (solid, aqueous, or liquid) and the classification of the second reaction as a redox reaction, which some participants challenge.

Who May Find This Useful

Students and individuals interested in chemistry, particularly those seeking assistance with balancing chemical equations and understanding reaction types.

Quincy
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Homework Statement


Write a balanced equation and indicate the reaction type (single/double replacement, decomposition, or synthesis) for each of the following:
a) Sulfuric acid (aq) + potassium hydroxide (aq) -->

b) Zinc (s) + sulfuric acid (aq) -->

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



a) H2SO4 (aq) + KOH (aq) --> K2S (aq) + H2O (L) (double replacement) -- can't seem to balance it though...

b) 4Zn (s) + H2SO4 (aq) --> 4ZnO (s) + H2S (aq) (single replacement)

-- I don't know how to determine whether the products will be s, aq, or L; can someone please explain how to determine that?
 
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SO42- is a verrry stable group.
 
These two examples are not oxidation/reduction reactions so there is no S-2 in the products.
 
chemisttree said:
These two examples are not oxidation/reduction reactions so there is no S-2 in the products.

Sorry, but technically speaking second one is a redox reaction. Still, no S2- in the products.
 
Yes, I meant that the SO4 to S-2 redox of course.
 
How about this:
a) H2SO4 (aq) + 2KOH (aq) --> K2SO4 (aq) + 2H2O (L) -- double replacement

b) Zn (s) + H2SO4 (aq) --> ZnSO4 (s) + H2 (g) -- single replacement
 
More or less OK. I mean - reactants and products are OK, and they are properly balanced. First reaction can be called neutralization. In the second - I would rather assume the zinc sulfate is dissolved after reaction, so more like (aq) then (s).
 

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