1. Write the balanced molecular equation:
FeCl₃(aq) + 3KOH(aq) → Fe(OH)₃(s) + 3KCl(aq)
2. Write the complete ionic equation:
Fe³⁺(aq) + 3Cl⁻(aq) + 3K⁺(aq) + 3OH⁻(aq) → Fe(OH)₃(s) + 3K⁺(aq) + 3Cl⁻(aq)
3. Identify the spectator ions:
Spectator ions are ions that appear on both sides of the equation and do not participate in the reaction. In this case, the spectator ions are K⁺ and Cl⁻.
4. Write the net ionic equation:
Fe³⁺(aq) + 3OH⁻(aq) → Fe(OH)₃(s)
Therefore, the net ionic equation for the reaction of iron(III) chloride and potassium hydroxide is:
Fe³⁺(aq) + 3OH⁻(aq) → Fe(OH)₃(s)