The Reaction:
2 NH₄Cl(aq) + Na₂CO₃(aq) → 2 NaCl(aq) + (NH₄)₂CO₃(aq)
What Happens:
* Double displacement: The ammonium and sodium ions switch partners.
* Formation of ammonium carbonate: Ammonium chloride and sodium carbonate react to form ammonium carbonate ((NH₄)₂CO₃).
* Ammonium carbonate decomposition: Ammonium carbonate is unstable in solution and decomposes into ammonia (NH₃) gas, carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas, and water (H₂O).
The Overall Reaction:
2 NH₄Cl(aq) + Na₂CO₃(aq) → 2 NaCl(aq) + 2 NH₃(g) + CO₂(g) + H₂O(l)
Evidence of the Reaction:
* Gas evolution: The reaction releases ammonia and carbon dioxide gases, causing bubbling.
* Odor: The ammonia gas has a pungent, characteristic odor.
* pH change: The solution will become more basic (higher pH) as ammonia gas is released.
Important Notes:
* This reaction is reversible, but the decomposition of ammonium carbonate drives the reaction to the right, favoring the formation of products.
* The reaction is carried out in solution, usually aqueous.
* The reaction is mildly exothermic, meaning it releases a small amount of heat.
