The reaction between iron sulfate (FeSO₄) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) does not form "sulfate" as a product. It forms iron hydroxide (Fe(OH)₂) and sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄). Here's the balanced chemical equation:

FeSO₄ (aq) + 2 NaOH (aq) → Fe(OH)₂ (s) + Na₂SO₄ (aq)

Explanation:

* Reactants:

* Iron sulfate (FeSO₄) is a soluble ionic compound.

* Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is also a soluble ionic compound.

* Products:

* Iron hydroxide (Fe(OH)₂) is an insoluble solid that precipitates out of solution.

* Sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄) remains dissolved in the solution.

* Balancing:

* To balance the equation, we need to ensure that the number of each type of atom is the same on both sides.

* We need two NaOH molecules to provide two hydroxide ions (OH⁻) to react with one FeSO₄ molecule. This results in one Fe(OH)₂ molecule and one Na₂SO₄ molecule.

This reaction is a double displacement reaction, where the positive and negative ions of the reactants switch places to form new products. The formation of the insoluble iron hydroxide is the driving force for the reaction.