Question

Select the most likely product for this reaction:

Upper K subscript 2 upper C upper O subscript 3 (a q) plus upper C upper O subscript 2 (g) right arrow question mark.

K2CO3(aq) + H2O(l)

K(s) + H2(g) + O2(g)

K(s) + CO3(g) + H2

Answer 1

The CO2 is converted to bicarbonate. Balanced reaction:

K2CO3(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l) → 2 KHCO3(aq) (or 2 KHCO3(s) if it precipitates)

Reason: CO2 + H2O ⇌ H2CO3, and CO3^2– + H2CO3 → 2 HCO3–, so potassium carbonate is converted to potassium bicarbonate.