How do you do this ionic equation problem?

Question

Silver Nitrate (aq) + Zinc Sulfate (aq) --> ?? ?? ??? ??

a. Complete ionic eq

b. net ionic eq

Answer 1

First find out whether Ag2SO4 or Zn(NO3)2 form a solid precipitate.  (It's Ag2SO4).

Now you write out the complete ionic equation.  A complete ionic equation has the substances written as separate ions.

(A) 2Ag(aq) + 2 NO3(aq) + Zn(aq) + SO4(aq) --> Ag2SO4(s) + 2NO3(aq) + Zn(aq)

The net ionic equation removes all 'spectator ions', which are ions that don't participate in the chemical reaction.  In this case, it would be the nitrate and zinc.

(B) 2Ag(aq) + SO4(aq) --> Ag2SO4(s)