Complete and balance the equation for this single-displacement reaction. Phases are optional. equation: AgNO3+Al⟶ Complete and balance the equation for this single-displacement reaction. Phases are optional. equation: AgNO3+Al⟶
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The balanced chemical equation for the single-displacement reaction between silver nitrate ((\text{AgNO}_3)) and aluminum ((\text{Al})) is:
[
3\text{AgNO}_3 + \text{Al} \rightarrow 3\text{Ag} + \text{Al(NO}_3)_3
]
Explanation:
1. Identifying the Type of Reaction
This is a single-displacement reaction, where a more reactive metal (aluminum) displaces a less reactive metal (silver) from its compound (silver nitrate). In general, the reaction follows the pattern:
[
\text{A} + \text{BC} \rightarrow \text{AC} + \text{B}
]
Here, aluminum (Al) replaces silver (Ag) in silver nitrate (AgNO₃), forming aluminum nitrate ((\text{Al(NO}_3)_3)) and elemental silver ((\text{Ag})).
2. Writing the Unbalanced Equation
Initially, the reaction can be written as:
[
\text{AgNO}_3 + \text{Al} \rightarrow \text{Ag} + \text{Al(NO}_3)_3
]
3. Balancing the Equation
- Balance Ag (Silver): Since aluminum forms (\text{Al(NO}_3)_3), it donates three electrons, meaning three Ag atoms must be produced.
[
3\text{AgNO}_3 + \text{Al} \rightarrow 3\text{Ag} + \text{Al(NO}_3)_3
] - Check for Nitrate Ions ((\text{NO}_3)): On both sides, there are three nitrate ((\text{NO}_3)) groups, so they are already balanced.
- Check the Overall Charge and Atoms: Everything is balanced.
4. Explanation of the Reaction
- Aluminum is more reactive than silver, based on the activity series of metals.
- Al donates three electrons to form Al³⁺, and each Ag⁺ ion gains one electron to form solid silver metal.
- The nitrate ion ((\text{NO}_3^-)) remains unchanged because it is a spectator ion.
This reaction demonstrates metal reactivity, redox principles, and practical applications in silver extraction.