The following picture represents the hydrated metal cation M1H2O26 n + , where n = 1, 2, or 3.

(a) Write a balanced equation for the reaction of M1H2O26 n + with water and write the equilibrium equation for the reaction.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the hydrated metal cation in the image. Here, the metal cation is V^{3+} (vanadium ion) surrounded by six water molecules.
2. Write the balanced chemical equation for the reaction of the hydrated metal cation with water. The general form is: M(H2O)6^{n+} + H2O ⇌ M(H2O)5(OH)^{(n-1)+} + H3O^+.
3. Substitute the specific metal cation (V^{3+}) into the equation: V(H2O)6^{3+} + H2O ⇌ V(H2O)5(OH)^{2+} + H3O^+.
4. Write the equilibrium expression for the reaction. The equilibrium constant expression (K_eq) is given by: K_eq = [V(H2O)5(OH)^{2+}][H3O^+] / [V(H2O)6^{3+}].
5. Ensure that the equation and equilibrium expression are balanced and correctly represent the species involved in the reaction.

Key Concepts

Hydrated Metal Cations

Hydrated metal cations are metal ions that are surrounded by water molecules. In this case, the cation M1H2O26 n+ represents a metal ion, such as V3+, coordinated with multiple water molecules. This hydration affects the properties of the metal ion, including its reactivity and stability in solution.

Acid-Base Equilibrium

Acid-base equilibrium refers to the balance between acids and bases in a solution. When a hydrated metal cation reacts with water, it can either donate a proton (acting as an acid) or accept a proton (acting as a base). Understanding this equilibrium is crucial for writing the balanced chemical equation and predicting the behavior of the species in solution.

Balanced Chemical Equations

A balanced chemical equation represents a chemical reaction where the number of atoms for each element is conserved. In the context of the reaction of M1H2O26 n+ with water, writing a balanced equation involves accounting for the reactants and products, ensuring that the total number of each type of atom is the same on both sides of the equation.