What occurs when an aqueous solution of #"lead(II) nitrate"# is mixed with a solution of #"sodium carbonate"#?

1 Answer
Mar 4, 2016

#Pb(NO_3)_2(aq) + Na_2CO_3(s) rarr 2NaNO_3(aq) + PbCO_3(s) darr#

Explanation:

This is a partner exchange or metathesis reaction. You know that solubilities follow a hierarchy. The salts of the alkali metals are SOLUBLE as are nitrate salts; carbonate salts are generally insoluble. How do you know? You commit the solubility tables to memory. Lead salts are generally insoluble (save for nitrates!). So what would occur in this reaction:

#Pb(NO_3)_2(aq) + Na_2SO_4(aq) rarr ??#