MnBr₂(aq) + 2NaOH(aq) → Mn(OH)₂(s) + 2NaBr(aq)
Here's what happens:
* Reactants:
* Manganese bromide (MnBr₂) is a soluble ionic compound.
* Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is also a soluble ionic compound.
* Products:
* Manganese(II) hydroxide (Mn(OH)₂) is an insoluble solid, which precipitates out of solution.
* Sodium bromide (NaBr) remains dissolved in solution.
Explanation of Balancing:
* Mn: One Mn atom on each side.
* Br: Two Br atoms on each side.
* Na: Two Na atoms on each side.
* O: Two O atoms on each side.
* H: Two H atoms on each side.
This reaction is a classic example of a double displacement reaction, where the positive and negative ions of the reactants switch places. The formation of the insoluble manganese(II) hydroxide drives the reaction forward.