I think what they want you to do is this.
(NH4)2SO4(s) + H2O ==> 2NH4^+(aq) + SO4^-2(aq)
Write an equation to show the dissolving of the following substance in water.
(NH4)2SO4(s)
NH42SO4 + H2O -> 2NH4 + SO4 + H^+ + OH-?
4 answers
Isn't the equation not balanced then?
No, you're correct. The equation isn't balanced. What we normally do is to write the arrow with H2O over the arrow to show that the solid is dissolving in water. That way the H2O doesn't actually enter into the balancing. I can't do that on these boards. Something like this but the H2O goes OVER the arrow and not through it. This is what one does when showing that the sample is treated with something (such as a catalyst although this is not a catalyst type reaction) and the result is what we see on the right (in this case the solvated ions. I think the main purpose of the problem is to make sure you understand that the (s) goes into solution, the ions are formed and that they are solvated, shown as (aq).
(NH4)2SO4(s) ==H2O==> (2NH4^+(aq) + SO4^-2(aq).
(NH4)2SO4(s) ==H2O==> (2NH4^+(aq) + SO4^-2(aq).
I understand now, thanks for clarifying. :)