the following equation : Na2SO4(aq) + BaCl2(aq) →2NaCl(aq) + BaSO4(s) Which ions can be considered as the spectator ions?

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the ions present in each reactant and product.
2. Determine which ions do not change during the reaction.

Relevant Concepts

• Spectator ions are ions that do not participate in the chemical reaction and remain unchanged in the solution.

Analysis and Detail

1. Identify Ions:

   • For Na2SO4: Dissociates into $2Na^+$ and $SO_4^{2-}$.
   • For BaCl2: Dissociates into $Ba^{2+}$ and $2Cl^-$.
   • For the products:
     • $2NaCl$: Dissociates into $2Na^+$ and $2Cl^-$.
     • $BaSO_4$: Forms BaSO4 (solid).

2. Determine Changes:

   • Reactants:
     • $Na^+$ and $SO_4^{2-}$ are present.
     • $Ba^{2+}$ and $Cl^-$ are present.
   • Products:
     • $Na^+$ and $Cl^-$ remain in solution.
     • $Ba^{2+}$ and $SO_4^{2-}$ react to form solid $BaSO_4$.

Verify and Summarize

• The ions that remain unchanged and are present on both sides of the reaction are:
  • $Na^+$ (sodium ion)
  • $Cl^-$ (chloride ion)

Final Answer

The spectator ions are $Na^+$ and $Cl^-$.