When an aqueous solution of barium chloride is mixed with an aqueous solution of sodium sulphate, what visible change is observed?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A white precipitate forms
The reaction is \(\mathrm{BaCl_2(aq) + Na_2SO_4(aq) \rightarrow BaSO_4(s) + 2NaCl(aq)}\). Barium sulphate, \(\mathrm{BaSO_4}\), is insoluble in water, so it appears as a white solid precipitate. Evolution of a brown gas is not a feature of this double-displacement precipitation reaction.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
A white precipitate forms
Why is this the correct answer?
The reaction is \(\mathrm{BaCl_2(aq) + Na_2SO_4(aq) \rightarrow BaSO_4(s) + 2NaCl(aq)}\). Barium sulphate, \(\mathrm{BaSO_4}\), is insoluble in water, so it appears as a white solid precipitate. Evolution of a brown gas is not a feature of this double-displacement precipitation reaction.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Chemical Reactions and Equations.
