Precipitation Reaction Chemistry Example 2

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Example 2

medium
Predict whether a precipitate forms when solutions of Pb(NO3)2\text{Pb(NO}_3)_2 and KI\text{KI} are mixed. If so, identify the precipitate and write the balanced equation. Use solubility rules: most iodides are soluble, but PbI2\text{PbI}_2 is insoluble.

Solution

  1. 1
    Exchange ions: Pb2+\text{Pb}^{2+} pairs with I−\text{I}^- → PbI2\text{PbI}_2. K+\text{K}^+ pairs with NO3−\text{NO}_3^- → KNO3\text{KNO}_3.
  2. 2
    Check solubility: PbI2\text{PbI}_2 is insoluble — it will precipitate as a bright yellow solid. KNO3\text{KNO}_3 is soluble.
  3. 3
    Balanced equation: Pb(NO3)2(aq)+2KI(aq)→PbI2(s)↓+2KNO3(aq)\text{Pb(NO}_3)_2\text{(aq)} + 2\text{KI(aq)} \rightarrow \text{PbI}_2\text{(s)}\downarrow + 2\text{KNO}_3\text{(aq)}.

Answer

Pb(NO3)2+2KI→PbI2↓+2KNO3\text{Pb(NO}_3)_2 + 2\text{KI} \rightarrow \text{PbI}_2\downarrow + 2\text{KNO}_3
Lead(II) iodide is one of the most visually striking precipitates — it forms a brilliant yellow solid. This reaction is commonly used as a demonstration of precipitation in chemistry classes.

About Precipitation Reaction

A type of double displacement reaction in which two aqueous ionic solutions are mixed and the exchange of ions produces at least one insoluble ionic.

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More Precipitation Reaction Examples

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Example 4 hard

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