The reaction between copper(II) sulfate (CuSO₄) and sodium phosphate (Na₃PO₄) is a double displacement reaction that results in the formation of a precipitate. Here's a breakdown:

The Reaction:

CuSO₄(aq) + Na₃PO₄(aq) → Cu₃(PO₄)₂(s) + Na₂SO₄(aq)

Explanation:

* Double Displacement: In this type of reaction, the positive and negative ions of two reactants switch places.

* Precipitation: The reaction produces copper(II) phosphate (Cu₃(PO₄)₂) which is insoluble in water and forms a solid precipitate. This precipitate is typically a light blue color.

* Soluble Products: Sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄) is soluble in water and remains dissolved in the solution.

Net Ionic Equation:

The net ionic equation focuses only on the species that participate in the formation of the precipitate:

3Cu²⁺(aq) + 2PO₄³⁻(aq) → Cu₃(PO₄)₂(s)

Key Points:

* The reaction is a classic example of a double displacement reaction leading to precipitation.

* The formation of the insoluble copper(II) phosphate precipitate is the driving force behind the reaction.

* This reaction can be used to identify the presence of either copper(II) ions or phosphate ions in a solution.