how to write a net ionic equation

Question

anonymous · Answer

Okay, so lets say we have the reaction for NaCl.
$$HCl (aq) + NaOH(aq) \rightarrow H _{2}O(l) + NaCl(aq)$$
HCl is a strong acid and NaOH is a strong base. Due to this, they are capable of dissociating (separating) completely in a solution. NaCl in addition, is a salt, also meaning that it separates completely in a solution. If you are ever unsure whether whether a compound is a strong acid/base, look up a chart online to help you out.
So because these compounds separate completely, the equation can be written like this instead:
$$H ^{+}(aq) + Cl ^{-}(aq) + Na ^{+}(aq) + OH ^{-}(aq) \rightarrow H _{2}O(l) + Na ^{+}(aq) + Cl ^{-}(aq)$$
This is called an ionic equation.
To get the net ionic equation, simply cross out the ions that are the same on each side.
Both the Na+ and Cl- would be crossed out leaving you with the net ionic equation of
$$H ^{+}(aq) + OH ^{-}(aq) \rightarrow H _{2}O(l)$$
Also, the ions that are crossed out in the ionic equation are known as spectator ions.