What are the spectator ions in Na++OH+H++ClH2O+Na++Cl?

1 Answer
Sep 8, 2017

The sodium and chloride ions......

Explanation:

When we write the neutralization reaction.....

NaOH(aq)+HCl(aq)NaCl(aq)+H2O(l)

...bond formation has clearly occurred for the formation of water, i.e. strong OH bonds have been formed..... However, the metal and non-metal ions remain in solution as their aquated ions; we write NaCl(aq), what we really mean is the aquated sodium cation, which is possibly [Na{(OH)2}6]+, a coordination complex if you like where the water molecule is the donor....and a similar aquated chloride complex.

And when we get the reactants into solution, [Na{(OH)2}6]+, remains substantially unchanged during the reaction; it is a SPECTATOR that cheers on the bond-making reaction between the ACTIVE hydroxide and protium ions.....

H3O++HO2H2O(l)

If you have further queries fire away, because this is a very important formalism to appreciate.