This question concerns net ionic equations and spectator ions.

Question

In a reaction between aqueous solutions of AgNO3 and LiCl, identify the spectator ions and the precipitate compound in the reaction.

Answer 1

Write the correctly balanced equation:

AgNO₃(aq) + LiCl(aq) ==> AgCl(s) + LiNO₃(aq) ... NOTE the formation of a precipitate, AgCl(s)

Total ionic equation:

Ag⁺(aq) + NO₃^-(aq) + Li⁺(aq) + Cl^-(aq) ==> AgCl(s) + Li⁺(aq) + NO₃^-(aq)

Net ionic equation (obtained by removing the spectator ions (Li⁺ and NO₃^-)

Ag⁺(aq) + Cl^-(aq) ==> AgCl(s)