Here's the balanced chemical equation:
H₂C₂O₄ (aq) + 2 NH₄OH (aq) → (NH₄)₂C₂O₄ (aq) + 2 H₂O (l)
Explanation:
* Oxalic acid is a diprotic acid, meaning it can donate two hydrogen ions (H⁺).
* Ammonium hydroxide is a weak base, providing hydroxide ions (OH⁻).
* When these react, the H⁺ from the acid combines with the OH⁻ from the base to form water.
* The remaining ions, ammonium (NH₄⁺) and oxalate (C₂O₄²⁻), form the salt ammonium oxalate.
Observations:
* The reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat.
* If the concentration of the reactants is high, a white precipitate of ammonium oxalate may form.
Uses:
* Ammonium oxalate is used in analytical chemistry as a precipitant for calcium and other metals.
* It is also used as a mordant in dyeing and as a reducing agent in photography.