Question

Does a reaction occur when aqueous solutions of potassium carbonate and lead(II) acetate are combined?
If a reaction does occur, write the net ionic equation. Use the solubility rules provided in the OWL Preparation Page to determine the solubility of compounds. Use the pull-down boxes to specify states such as (aq) or (s). If a box is not needed leave it blank.

Answer 1

Yes, a precipitation reaction occurs between aqueous solution of potassium carbonate and lead(II) acetate.Precipitates of lead carbonate are formed in this reaction.

Molecular equation

K₂CO₃(aq)+Pb (CH₃COO)₂(aq) - - >2CH₃COOK(aq)+PbCO₃(s)

For writing ionic equation, dissociate soluble compounds into its ions. However, insoluble compounds or precipitates are not dissociated.

Ionic equation

2K⁺(aq) +CO₃^2-(aq)+Pb²⁺(aq) +2CH₃COO^-(aq) ---->2CH₃COO^-(aq) +2K⁺(aq)+PbCO₃(s)

For writing net ionic equation, cancel the ions that are common on both sides i. e. Spectator ions. K⁺ and CH₃COO^- are cancelled out on both sides of the equation.

Net ionic equation

CO₃^2-(aq)+Pb²⁺(aq)--->PbCO₃(s)

Carbonates are insoluble except carbonates of group 1 (alkali metals) like Na⁺,K^{+ etc.} Or NH₄^+.Thus,potassium carbonate is soluble while lead carbonate is insoluble.

Acetates are soluble. That is why, both lead acetate and potassium acetate are soluble.