Chemistry Reations?

Question

The question is:

only one of each of the following pairs of reactants undergoes a reaction. Complete and balance the equation for the reaction which occurs.
Co(OH)2 (s)+ NaOH (aq)-->
Al(OH)3 (s)+ NaOH (aq)-->

that was the only pair i couldnt get. i really think that the cobalt equation is the one that's right, but i'm not positive. Even if it is correct, i dont know what it would produce. I want to say just the cobalt ion and water and sodium...but then it cant be balanced. then, i want to just say it's cobalt ion and hydroxide, and Na. i'm just not sure..i'd like someone to verify it for me, please.

also, there's really no need to balance it for me, if you figure it out. i can do that on my own. :)

thank you!

Answer 1

Aluminium hydroxide is the one which reacts. If you look up "amphoteric behaviour of aluminium hydroxide" you will find the necessary equations.

Cobalt hydroxide is a purely basic hydroxide, and doesn't react with NaOH.