Chemistry Name__________________________________ Period_____
Net Ionic Equation Worksheet
READ THIS: When two solutions of ionic compounds are mixed, a solid may form. This type of reaction is called a
precipitation reaction, and the solid produced in the reaction is known as the precipitate. You can predict whether a
precipitate will form using a list of solubility rules such as those found in the table below. When a combination of ions is
described as insoluble, a precipitate forms. There are three types of equations that are commonly written to describe a
precipitation reaction.
The molecular equation shows each of the substances in the reaction as compounds with physical states written next to
the chemical formulas.
The complete ionic equation shows each of the aqueous compounds as separate ions. Insoluble substances are not
separated and these have the symbol (s) written next to them. Water and gases are also not separated and it has a (l) or
(g) written next to it. Notice that there are ions that are present on both sides of the reaction arrow –> that is, they do
not react. These ions are known as spectator ions and they are eliminated from complete ionic equation by crossing
them out.
The remaining equation is known as the net ionic equation.
For example: The reaction of potassium chloride and lead (II) nitrate
Molecular Equation: 2KCl (aq) + Pb(NO3)2 (aq)-> 2KNO3(aq) + PbCl2 (s)
Complete Ionic Equation: 2K+ (aq) + 2Cl- (aq) + Pb2+ (aq) + 2NO3– (aq) -> 2K+ (aq) + 2NO3– (aq) + PbCl2 (s)
Net Ionic Equation: 2Cl- (aq) + Pb2+ (aq) -> PbCl2 (s)
Directions: Write balanced molecular, ionic, and net ionic equations for each of the following reactions. Assume all
reactions occur in aqueous solution. Include states of matter in your balanced equation.
1. Sodium chloride and silver nitrate
Molecular Equation:
Complete Ionic Equation:
Particulate drawing: (draw small circles to represent atoms)
Net Ionic Equation:
2. Sodium hydroxide and Iron (II) carbonate
Molecular Equation:
Complete Ionic Equation:
Particulate drawing: (draw small circles to represent atoms)
Net Ionic Equation:
