Chapter 11, Problem 3STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The products of the balanced net ionic equation for the given reaction are to be stated.

Concept Introduction : According to the law of conservation of mass, the mass can neither be created nor be destroyed. Every reaction must be balanced.

Answer to Problem 3STP

The products are ${\text{Mg}}^{2+}\left(aq\right)+\text{Cu}\left(s\right)$ . Hence, the correct option is (C).

Explanation of Solution

The reaction of magnesium ribbon with an aqueous solution of copper(II) chloride results in the formation of an aqueous solution of magnesium sulfate and solid copper.

The balanced equation is given as:

  $\text{Mg}\left(s\right)+{\text{CuSO}}_4\left(aq\right)\to {\text{MgSO}}_4\left(aq\right)+\text{Cu}\left(s\right)$

The ionic equation is given as:

  $\text{Mg}\left(s\right)+{\text{Cu}}^{2+}\left(aq\right)+{\text{SO}}_4{}^{2-}\left(aq\right)\to {\text{Mg}}^{2+}\left(aq\right)+{\text{SO}}_4{}^{2-}\left(aq\right)+\text{Cu}\left(s\right)$

The ions present on both sides are known as spectators’ ions and these ions are excluded n the net ionic equation. The balanced net ionic equation is given as:

  $\text{Mg}\left(s\right)+{\text{Cu}}^{2+}\left(aq\right)\to {\text{Mg}}^{2+}\left(aq\right)+\text{Cu}\left(s\right)$

Thus, the products are ${\text{Mg}}^{2+}\left(aq\right)+\text{Cu}\left(s\right)$ . Hence, the correct option is (C).