aluminum (Al) is more reactive than mercury (Hg). According to the activity series, aluminum can replace mercury in a chemical reaction. Therefore, the reaction can occur.
The balanced equation for the reaction is:
2HgCl2 + 2Al → 2AlCl3 + 2Hg
1. There are now 3H2O
molecules.
2. There is an extra O2
molecule left over.
3. There are now 3CO2
molecules.
4. Nothing changes in the equation.