Write balanced molecular and net ionic equations for the reaction between nitric acid and calcium hydroxide.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the reactants and products: Nitric acid (HNO₃) reacts with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) to form calcium nitrate (Ca(NO₃)₂) and water (H₂O).
2. Write the balanced molecular equation: Combine the reactants to form the products, ensuring that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation.
3. Dissociate all strong electrolytes into their ions for the complete ionic equation: Break down HNO₃, Ca(OH)₂, and Ca(NO₃)₂ into their respective ions.
4. Cancel out the spectator ions to write the net ionic equation: Identify ions that appear on both sides of the complete ionic equation and remove them.
5. Write the final net ionic equation: Include only the ions and molecules directly involved in the chemical reaction.

Key Concepts

Balanced Molecular Equation

A balanced molecular equation represents the reactants and products of a chemical reaction with their correct stoichiometric coefficients. It ensures that the number of atoms for each element is the same on both sides of the equation, adhering to the law of conservation of mass. For the reaction between nitric acid and calcium hydroxide, the balanced molecular equation illustrates the complete ionic compounds involved before any dissociation occurs.

Net Ionic Equation

A net ionic equation focuses on the species that actually participate in the chemical reaction, omitting spectator ions that do not change during the reaction. This equation highlights the essential chemical change occurring, providing a clearer understanding of the reaction dynamics. In the case of nitric acid reacting with calcium hydroxide, the net ionic equation will show the formation of water and calcium nitrate, emphasizing the acid-base neutralization process.

Acid-Base Reaction

An acid-base reaction involves the transfer of protons (H⁺ ions) from the acid to the base, resulting in the formation of water and a salt. In this specific reaction, nitric acid (HNO₃) acts as the acid, while calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) serves as the base. Understanding this concept is crucial for predicting the products of the reaction and for writing both the balanced molecular and net ionic equations accurately.