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  • Zinc and Sodium Hydroxide Reaction: Balanced Equation & Explanation
    The reaction between zinc (Zn) and aqueous sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a bit more complex than a simple double displacement reaction. Here's the breakdown:

    The Reaction:

    Zinc reacts with a concentrated solution of sodium hydroxide to produce sodium zincate (Na₂ZnO₂) and hydrogen gas (H₂).

    Balanced Chemical Equation:

    ```

    Zn(s) + 2 NaOH(aq) + 2 H₂O(l) → Na₂ZnO₂(aq) + 2 H₂(g)

    ```

    Explanation:

    1. Zinc and Hydroxide Ions: Zinc reacts with hydroxide ions (OH⁻) from the sodium hydroxide solution.

    2. Formation of Sodium Zincate: The reaction forms sodium zincate (Na₂ZnO₂), a soluble salt.

    3. Hydrogen Gas Evolution: The reaction also produces hydrogen gas (H₂) as a byproduct.

    Note:

    * The reaction requires a concentrated NaOH solution.

    * Zinc oxide (ZnO) can also be formed as a byproduct, but this is less common than sodium zincate.

    Let me know if you have any further questions.

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