Identify the spectator ion(s) in the following reaction:
Cu(OH)2(s) + 2H+(aq) + 2Cl–(aq) ---> Cu2+(aq) + 2Cl–(aq) + 2H2O(l)
a. Cu2+ and Cl-
b. H+ and Cl–
c. Cu(OH)2
d. Cl–
e. Cu2+
To identify the spectator ions in a reaction, we need to look for ions that are present on both sides of the equation and do not undergo any chemical change. These ions are merely present as "spectators" and do not participate in the overall reaction.
In the given reaction:
Cu(OH)2(s) + 2H+(aq) + 2Cl–(aq) ---> Cu2+(aq) + 2Cl–(aq) + 2H2O(l)
Cu2+ and Cl- ions appear on both sides of the equation without undergoing any chemical changes. Therefore, the spectator ions in this reaction are Cu2+ and Cl-.
So, the correct answer is (a) Cu2+ and Cl-.