Write balanced net ionic equations for the reactions of b. aluminum with formic acid, HCOOH. Hint: These reactions produce a gas.

Verified step by step guidance

1. <strong>Step 1:</strong> Identify the reactants and products in the reaction. Aluminum (Al) reacts with formic acid (HCOOH) to produce aluminum formate and hydrogen gas (H₂).
2. <strong>Step 2:</strong> Write the balanced molecular equation for the reaction. The general form is: \[ 2 \text{Al} + 6 \text{HCOOH} \rightarrow 2 \text{Al(HCOO)}_3 + 3 \text{H}_2 \]
3. <strong>Step 3:</strong> Break down the soluble compounds into their respective ions to write the complete ionic equation. Aluminum formate is soluble, so it dissociates into ions: \[ 2 \text{Al} + 6 \text{H}^+ + 6 \text{HCOO}^- \rightarrow 2 \text{Al}^{3+} + 6 \text{HCOO}^- + 3 \text{H}_2 \]
4. <strong>Step 4:</strong> Identify and cancel out the spectator ions. In this case, the formate ions (HCOO⁻) are spectator ions and do not participate in the reaction.
5. <strong>Step 5:</strong> Write the net ionic equation by removing the spectator ions: \[ 2 \text{Al} + 6 \text{H}^+ \rightarrow 2 \text{Al}^{3+} + 3 \text{H}_2 \]

Key Concepts

Net Ionic Equations

Net ionic equations represent the actual chemical species that participate in a reaction, excluding spectator ions. They focus on the ions and molecules that undergo a change during the reaction, providing a clearer picture of the chemical processes involved. To write a net ionic equation, one must first write the balanced molecular equation, then identify and remove the spectator ions.

Acid-Base Reactions

Acid-base reactions involve the transfer of protons (H+) from an acid to a base. In this context, formic acid (HCOOH) acts as the acid, donating protons to aluminum, which can act as a reducing agent. Understanding the properties of acids and bases, including their strength and the nature of their reactions, is crucial for predicting the products and writing the corresponding equations.

Gas Evolution Reactions

Gas evolution reactions occur when a chemical reaction produces a gas as one of the products. In the reaction between aluminum and formic acid, hydrogen gas (H2) is generated. Recognizing the signs of gas evolution, such as bubbling or fizzing, is important for identifying the products of the reaction and for writing the balanced net ionic equation accurately.