Give the net ionic equation for the reaction (if any) that occurs when aqueous solutions of Na2CO3 and HCl are mixed.

Na2CO3 + 2HCl - 2NaCl + H2CO3

I got
CO3 +2H - H2CO

but the answer is

2 H+(aq) + CO3 (aq) → H2O(l) + CO2(g)

Can someone explain to me why it becomes H2O + CO2 instead of just H2CO?

Question

Give the net ionic equation for the reaction (if any) that occurs when aqueous solutions of Na2CO3 and HCl are mixed.

Na2CO3 + 2HCl -> 2NaCl + H2CO3

I got 
CO3 +2H - > H2CO

but the answer is

2 H+(aq) + CO3 (aq) → H2O(l) + CO2(g)

Can someone explain to me why it becomes H2O + CO2 instead of just H2CO?

chmvijay · Answer

CO3 +2H - > H2CO 
is this equation balnced plese check it out

anonymous · Answer

No. I forgot the H2CO3

anonymous · Answer

But why does it separate into H2O and CO2?

chmvijay · Answer

it formed may not be stable hence it decomposes to H2O and CO2

anonymous · Answer

How can I know if it's stable or not?

chmvijay · Answer

humnn that is difficult dude it depends upon the external factors like pressure temperature
etc etc
good question

anonymous · Answer

Great! I just hope I don't get some weird problem  like this one on the test tomorrow.  BUt I have this combustion rule  here that says hydrogen carbon mixed with oxygen will always produce carbon dioxide and water.

CH + O2 -> H2O + CO2