How does the reaction between calcium oxide, and nitric acid demonstrate the principle of stoichiometry?

1 Answer
anor277
Nov 22, 2016

#CaO(s) + 2HNO_3(aq) rarr Ca(NO_3)_2(aq) + H_2O(l)#

Explanation:

For every reactant particle, is there a corresponding product particle? Has charge been conserved in the reaction as written?

Chemical reactions conserve (i) mass, and (ii) charge absolutely, and invariably. And so if your reaction does not stoichiometrically balance, then it is not a valid representation of chemical reality.

The given reaction is an example of an #"acid-base reaction"#. Which reagent is the acid, and which is the base?

Note that #Ca# metal is an #"alkaline-earth"#, from #"Group 2"# of the Periodic Table, and normally forms #Ca^(2+)# upon oxidation. Its hydroxide salt is thus #Ca(OH)_2#.

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