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Ch.3 - Molecules, Compounds & Chemical Equations
Chapter 3, Problem 109

Write the balanced chemical equation for the reaction between aqueous sodium carbonate and aqueous copper(II) chloride to form solid copper(II) carbonate and aqueous sodium chloride.

Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the reactants and products in the reaction: Sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) and copper(II) chloride (CuCl2) are the reactants, while copper(II) carbonate (CuCO3) and sodium chloride (NaCl) are the products.
Write the unbalanced chemical equation using the chemical formulas of the reactants and products: Na2CO3 (aq) + CuCl2 (aq) → CuCO3 (s) + NaCl (aq).
Balance the equation by ensuring the number of each type of atom is the same on both sides of the equation. Start by balancing the metals: Sodium (Na) and Copper (Cu).
Next, balance the non-metal atoms: Carbon (C) and Chlorine (Cl).
Finally, check that the number of oxygen atoms is balanced. Adjust coefficients as necessary to ensure all elements are balanced.