When sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) reacts with sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃), a chemical reaction occurs that produces sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and water (H₂O). The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is:
\[ \text{H}_2\text{SO}_4 + \text{Na}_2\text{CO}_3 \rightarrow \text{Na}_2\text{SO}_4 + \text{CO}_2 + \text{H}_2\text{O} \]
In this reaction:
- Sulfuric Acid (H₂SO₄) is a strong acid.
- Sodium Carbonate (Na₂CO₃) is a salt that acts as a base.
- Sodium Sulfate (Na₂SO₄) is an ionic compound formed as a result of the reaction.
- Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) is a gas that is released as a byproduct and can be observed as bubbling or fizzing during the reaction.
- Water (H₂O) is also produced.
This reaction is an example of an acid-base reaction, where the acid (sulfuric acid) donates protons (H⁺ ions) to the carbonate, leading to the release of carbon dioxide gas.