How do you write net ionic balanced chemical equations?

Question

I have no idea what's going on, maybe it's just the way our teacher explains it... an example would be good. Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

First you balance the equation by listing the reactants in a column and the corresponding products in another.

ex. 5 Na      2Na

                 2H        2H

Then balance the equation accordingly. Precipitates can't break apart or anything with a (s) next to the compound, but aqueous solutions (aq) can, so break the compounds apart. Cancel out all the common reactants and products. The leftover reactants and products make up your net ionic balanced equation.