Question

What are the spectator ions for the reaction that occurs when aqueous solutions of `Na_2CO_3` and HCL are mixed?

Answer 1

`Na^+` and `Cl^-` ions are along for the ride........

Explanation:

We can write the given rxn as:

`Na_2CO_3(aq) + 2HCl(aq) rarr 2NaCl(aq)+ CO_2(g) + H_2O(l)`

Of course we can remove the spectator ions, and write the net ionic equation:

`CO_3^(2-) + 2H_3O^(+) rarr CO_2(g)uarr +3H_2O(l)`

Are mass and charge balanced here? If they are not, is there a problem?