Write balanced chemical equations for each of the following reactions: (d) Nitrogen dioxide dissolves in water to form nitric acid and nitric oxide.

Key Concepts

Chemical Equations

A chemical equation represents a chemical reaction using symbols and formulas. It shows the reactants on the left side and the products on the right, separated by an arrow. Balancing the equation ensures that the number of atoms for each element is the same on both sides, adhering to the law of conservation of mass.

Acid-Base Reactions

Acid-base reactions involve the transfer of protons (H+) between reactants. In this context, nitrogen dioxide (NO2) reacts with water (H2O) to form nitric acid (HNO3), which is an acid, and nitric oxide (NO), which is a neutral product. Understanding the properties of acids and bases is crucial for predicting the products of such reactions.

Dissolution and Reaction Mechanisms

Dissolution refers to the process of a solute (like nitrogen dioxide) interacting with a solvent (water) to form a solution. In this case, NO2 reacts with H2O, leading to the formation of HNO3 and NO. Recognizing how gases dissolve in liquids and the subsequent reactions that occur is essential for writing accurate balanced equations.