Here's the balanced chemical equation:
(NH₄)₂SO₄ (aq) + Ba(NO₃)₂ (aq) → BaSO₄ (s) + 2 NH₄NO₃ (aq)
Explanation:
* Reactants: Ammonium sulfate and barium nitrate are both soluble in water, forming aqueous solutions.
* Products:
* Barium sulfate (BaSO₄) is a white solid that is insoluble in water, causing it to precipitate out of the solution. This is the driving force behind the reaction.
* Ammonium nitrate (NH₄NO₃) remains dissolved in the solution.
Observation:
When you mix solutions of ammonium sulfate and barium nitrate, you will observe the formation of a white, cloudy precipitate, which is the barium sulfate.
Important Note: Barium sulfate is a highly insoluble compound and is often used in medical imaging procedures (barium enema) due to its ability to absorb X-rays.