Mg(NO3)2 + (NH4)3PO4 predict the product and balancing the equation. Use solubility rules to predict if a precipitate is formed.
3Mg(NO3)2 + 2(NH4)3PO4 ==> Mg3(PO4)2(s) + 6NH4NO3
To predict the product and balance the equation for the reaction between Mg(NO3)2 and (NH4)3PO4, you need to identify the ions present and their charges.
Mg(NO3)2:
- Mg2+ (magnesium ion)
- NO3- (nitrate ion)
(NH4)3PO4:
- NH4+ (ammonium ion)
- PO4^3- (phosphate ion)
Now, let's combine the ions to form the products of the reaction:
Mg2+ + 2NO3- + 3NH4+ + PO4^3- → Mg3(PO4)2 + 6NH4NO3
The balanced equation is:
3Mg(NO3)2 + 2(NH4)3PO4 → Mg3(PO4)2 + 6NH4NO3
To determine if a precipitate is formed, consult the solubility rules. Here are some key rules:
1. Most nitrate (NO3-) salts are soluble.
2. Most ammonium (NH4+) salts are soluble.
3. Most phosphate (PO4^3-) salts are insoluble, except for those of alkali metals and ammonium.
Since Mg3(PO4)2 has phosphate ions, it is most likely insoluble and will form a precipitate. However, the other product, NH4NO3, is soluble based on the solubility rules.
Therefore, the balanced equation is:
3Mg(NO3)2 + 2(NH4)3PO4 → Mg3(PO4)2 + 6NH4NO3, and a precipitate of Mg3(PO4)2 is formed.