Question

Write a net ionic equation for the reaction that occurs when aqueous solutions of ammonia and nitric acid are combined?

Net Ionic Eqns with Acids and Bases

Dissociate all strong acids and bases. Leave together all weak acids and bases. Cross out spectator ions.
Strong Acids and Strong Bases ionize 100% in aqueous solution.
- HCl is a strong acid. In solution we write it as H3O+(aq) + Cl -(aq).
- HF is a weak acid. In solution we write it as HF(aq).

• KOH is a strong base. In solution we write it as K+(aq) + OH -(aq).
• NH3 is a weak base. In solution we write it as NH3(aq).
  Exception: Since Ca(OH)2 is only slightly soluble we write it as Ca(OH)2(s).

Below is a list of the 6 strong acids and 6 strong bases you should know. All other acids and bases are considered weak.

Strong Acids Strong Bases
HCl, HBr, HI LiOH, NaOH, KOH
HNO3 Ca(OH)2 slightly soluble
HClO4 Ba(OH)2
H2SO4 Sr(OH)2

please specify g, l, aq

Answer 1

The equation is

`H_3O^+ + NH_3 rightleftharpoons NH_4^+ + H_2O`

Explanation:

According to the details in the question, amonia is written `NH_3` because it is a weak base, and does not ionize to a large extent in water.

On the other hand, nitric acid is very strong, and should be written `H_3O^+ + NO_3^-`

Finally, as the nitrate ion is a spectator here, it is omitted from the net ionic equation.