* Single Displacement: In this type of reaction, a more reactive element displaces a less reactive element from its compound.
* The Reaction: Chlorine (Cl₂) is more reactive than iodine (I₂). When chlorine gas is bubbled through a solution of sodium iodide (NaI), the chlorine atoms displace the iodine atoms from the iodide ions (I⁻).
The Chemical Equation:
Cl₂(g) + 2NaI(aq) → 2NaCl(aq) + I₂(s)
* Reactants: Chlorine gas (Cl₂) and sodium iodide (NaI)
* Products: Sodium chloride (NaCl) and elemental iodine (I₂)
Explanation:
* Chlorine (Cl₂) is a stronger oxidizing agent than iodine (I₂). This means it has a greater tendency to gain electrons.
* Chlorine atoms react with iodide ions (I⁻) to form chloride ions (Cl⁻) and elemental iodine (I₂).
* The iodine atoms then combine to form diatomic iodine molecules (I₂), which are insoluble in water and precipitate out as a solid.
Key Points:
* The reaction is driven by the difference in reactivity between chlorine and iodine.
* The reaction produces a color change, as the colorless solution turns brown due to the formation of elemental iodine.