The reaction involves two reactants, sodium chloride and copper sulfate, producing sodium sulfate and copper chloride.
A double replacement reaction involves the exchange of ions between two reactants.
Sodium and copper ions exchange places in the reaction.
The equation represents a double replacement reaction .
Explanation
Analyzing the Reaction Let's analyze the given chemical reaction to determine its type. The reaction is:
2 N a Cl ( a q ) + C u S O 4 ( a q ) → N a 2 S O 4 ( a q ) + C u C l 2 ( s )
Identifying Reactants and Products In this reaction, sodium chloride ( N a Cl ) reacts with copper sulfate ( C u S O 4 ) to produce sodium sulfate ( N a 2 S O 4 ) and copper chloride ( C u C l 2 ). We need to identify which type of reaction this represents.
Evaluating Reaction Types
Synthesis reaction: Two or more reactants combine to form a single product. This is not the case here, as we have two reactants and two products.
Decomposition reaction: A single reactant breaks down into two or more products. This is also not the case, as we have two reactants.
Single replacement reaction: One element replaces another in a compound. This doesn't accurately describe the reaction, as it involves an exchange of ions.
Double replacement reaction: Involves the exchange of ions between two reactants to form two new compounds. This seems to fit the reaction, as sodium and copper appear to switch places.
Confirming Double Replacement In the given reaction, the sodium ions ( N a + ) from sodium chloride and the copper ions ( C u 2 + ) from copper sulfate effectively exchange partners. Sodium combines with sulfate to form sodium sulfate, and copper combines with chloride to form copper chloride. This exchange of ions is characteristic of a double replacement reaction.
Conclusion Therefore, the equation represents a double replacement reaction.
Examples
Double replacement reactions are commonly used in water treatment to remove unwanted ions. For example, barium chloride can be used to remove sulfate ions from water, forming barium sulfate, which is an insoluble precipitate that can be easily filtered out. This process is essential for ensuring the water is safe for consumption and industrial use. The reaction can be represented as: B a C l 2 ( a q ) + N a 2 S O 4 ( a q ) → 2 N a Cl ( a q ) + B a S O 4 ( s ) .
The given reaction 2 N a Cl ( a q ) + C u S O 4 ( a q ) → N a 2 S O 4 ( a q ) + C u C l 2 ( s ) represents a double replacement reaction, where sodium ions and copper ions exchange places between the compounds. This reaction fits the characteristics of a double replacement due to the exchange of ions. Thus, the correct answer is D. double replacement reaction.
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