Here's the balanced chemical equation:
3 NaOH (aq) + H₃PO₄ (aq) → Na₃PO₄ (aq) + 3 H₂O (l)
What happens:
* Acid-base reaction: The hydroxide ions (OH-) from sodium hydroxide react with the hydrogen ions (H+) from phosphoric acid.
* Salt formation: The remaining ions, sodium (Na+) and phosphate (PO₄³-), combine to form sodium phosphate.
* Water formation: The hydrogen and hydroxide ions react to form water.
Important notes:
* The reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat.
* The exact products formed can vary depending on the stoichiometry of the reaction (the relative amounts of reactants). For example, with a smaller amount of sodium hydroxide, you could form sodium dihydrogen phosphate (NaH₂PO₄) or disodium hydrogen phosphate (Na₂HPO₄).
* The pH of the resulting solution will depend on the relative amounts of acid and base used. If the amounts are equal (stoichiometric), the solution will be neutral (pH 7). If there is excess sodium hydroxide, the solution will be basic. If there is excess phosphoric acid, the solution will be acidic.
Safety:
* Both sodium hydroxide and phosphoric acid are corrosive and can cause skin and eye burns. Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and goggles, when handling these chemicals.
* When mixing these chemicals, it's essential to add the acid to the base slowly and with constant stirring to control the reaction and prevent splattering.
