The reaction between sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) and ammonium nitrate (NH₄NO₃) is a double displacement reaction, also known as a metathesis reaction. It results in the formation of sodium nitrate (NaNO₃) and ammonium carbonate ((NH₄)₂CO₃).

Here's the balanced chemical equation:

Na₂CO₃(aq) + 2 NH₄NO₃(aq) → 2 NaNO₃(aq) + (NH₄)₂CO₃(aq)

Explanation:

* Sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) is a soluble salt, meaning it dissolves in water to form ions: Na⁺ and CO₃²⁻.

* Ammonium nitrate (NH₄NO₃) is also a soluble salt, forming NH₄⁺ and NO₃⁻ ions in solution.

* When these solutions are mixed, the ions rearrange. The sodium ions (Na⁺) combine with the nitrate ions (NO₃⁻) to form sodium nitrate (NaNO₃), which is also soluble.

* Similarly, the ammonium ions (NH₄⁺) combine with the carbonate ions (CO₃²⁻) to form ammonium carbonate ((NH₄)₂CO₃). However, ammonium carbonate is not very stable in solution and tends to decompose into ammonia (NH₃), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and water (H₂O).

Overall Reaction:

The overall reaction is a gas evolution reaction due to the decomposition of ammonium carbonate. This results in the release of ammonia gas (NH₃) with a characteristic pungent odor.

Important Note:

While the reaction itself is not particularly dangerous, the release of ammonia gas can be irritating to the eyes and respiratory system. It is best to perform this reaction in a well-ventilated area.