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Ch.17 - Applications of Aqueous Equilibria
Chapter 17, Problem 121

Write a balanced net ionic equation for each of the follow-ing dissolution reactions, and use the appropriate Ksp and Kf values in Appendix C to calculate the equilibrium constant for each.(a) AgI in aqueous NaCN to form [Ag(CN)2]-

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Identify the dissolution reaction: AgI(s) dissolves in NaCN to form [Ag(CN)_2]^-.
Write the balanced chemical equation for the dissolution: AgI(s) + 2CN^-(aq) -> [Ag(CN)_2]^-(aq) + I^-(aq).
Write the net ionic equation by removing spectator ions: AgI(s) + 2CN^-(aq) -> [Ag(CN)_2]^-(aq) + I^-(aq).
Use the solubility product constant (K_{sp}) for AgI and the formation constant (K_{f}) for [Ag(CN)_2]^- to find the equilibrium constant (K_{eq}).
Calculate K_{eq} using the formula: K_{eq} = K_{sp} * K_{f}.

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Key Concepts

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

Net Ionic Equations

A net ionic equation represents the chemical species that are involved in a reaction, excluding spectator ions. It focuses on the ions and molecules that undergo a change during the reaction, providing a clearer picture of the chemical processes. For dissolution reactions, this involves identifying the ions that form in solution and their interactions.
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Solubility Product Constant (Ksp)

The solubility product constant (Ksp) is an equilibrium constant that quantifies the solubility of a sparingly soluble ionic compound. It is derived from the concentrations of the ions in a saturated solution at equilibrium. Understanding Ksp is crucial for predicting whether a precipitate will form when solutions are mixed and for calculating the concentrations of ions in solution.
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Formation Constant (Kf)

The formation constant (Kf) is a measure of the stability of a complex ion in solution, representing the equilibrium between the complex and its constituent ions. A higher Kf value indicates a more stable complex. In the context of the given question, Kf is used to calculate the equilibrium constant for the formation of the complex ion [Ag(CN)2]-, which is essential for understanding the reaction's dynamics.
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