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Ch.4 - Reactions in Aqueous Solution
Chapter 4, Problem 95

Antacids are often used to relieve pain and promote healing in the treatment of mild ulcers. Write balanced net ionic equations for the reactions between the aqueous HCl in the stomach and each of the following substances used in various antacids: (a) Al(OH)3(s) (b) Mg(OH)2(s) (c) MgCO3(s) (d) NaAl(CO3)(OH)2(s) (e) CaCO3(s).

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1
Identify the chemical formula of the antacid: NaAl(CO_3)(OH)_2.
Write the balanced chemical equation for the reaction between NaAl(CO_3)(OH)_2 and HCl: NaAl(CO_3)(OH)_2(s) + HCl(aq) -> products.
Determine the products of the reaction. Typically, the reaction will produce water, carbon dioxide, and a salt. Consider the decomposition of carbonate and hydroxide ions.
Write the complete ionic equation by breaking down all aqueous compounds into their ions.
Cancel out the spectator ions to write the net ionic equation, focusing on the ions that participate in the reaction.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

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. This is particularly useful in acid-base reactions, where the transfer of protons is the primary focus.
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Acid-Base Reactions

Acid-base reactions involve the transfer of protons (H+) from an acid to a base. In the context of antacids, the antacid neutralizes stomach acid (HCl) by reacting with it to form water and a salt. Understanding the properties of acids and bases, including their strength and dissociation in water, is essential for predicting the products of these reactions.
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Solubility and Precipitation

Solubility refers to the ability of a substance to dissolve in a solvent, while precipitation occurs when a solid forms from a solution during a chemical reaction. In the case of antacids, the solubility of the compounds involved, such as sodium aluminum carbonate, affects the reaction with hydrochloric acid and the formation of products. Recognizing which compounds are soluble or insoluble helps in writing accurate net ionic equations.
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