BaSO4(s)__><---

Question

Ba2+(aq) + SO42−(aq)

Adding what substance produces more SO4^2-???

This was a question, that had options of

1. SO4^2-
2. Ba2+
3. BaSO4(s)
4. and i think a compound with NH in it

Thank you

Answer 1

This is a nutty question. I suspect the trick is NOT to choose #3.
Adding SO4 will increase sulfate.
Adding Ba^2+ DECREASES SO4.
I can't think of NH containing compound that might do it unless it's a complexing agent. IF it complexed Ba so that Ba^2+ is decreased then SO4 will increase.

Answer 2

Dr Bob. I asked someone else in class they recalled NaSO4 as an option and I think under the common ion or complex ion theme that would be the choice? I chose BaSO4 (s)...i thought according to Le Chatelier that would dissociate and make more SO4 no???

Thanks for your insight if you hvae further comments on why either answer was right or wrong.