Question about writing ionic equations?

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Question about writing ionic equations?

In a text it states that the following equation

Na2CO3(aq)+Cu(s)-->Cu(s)CO3(s)+2Na

with a note saying that Na2 must be written as 2Na not Na2 (subscript). I don't understand why as it is the same thing. Any help would be appreciated

2007-08-27 10:14:18 · 2 answers · asked by Gideon 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry

2 answers

NO it is not the same thing Na2 would imply that you have a disodium molecule. However metals exist as matrices of independent atoms not molecules. Therefore this reaction does not form a molecule of disodium but two atoms of sodium.

2007-08-27 10:18:36 · answer #1 · answered by Christophe G 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋

2Na+(aq) + CO3=(aq) + Cu(s) ===> CuCO3(s) + 2Na+(aq)

You have some things missing from your equation.

2007-08-27 17:25:11 · answer #2 · answered by steve_geo1 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋