How to Write the Net Ionic Equation for Fe + HCl = FeCl2 + H2 (Iron + Hydrochloric acid)

To write the net ionic equation for Fe + HCl = FeCl2 + H2 (Iron + Hydrochloric acid) we follow main three steps. First, we balance the molecular equation.

Second, we break the soluble ionic compounds into their ions (these are the compounds with an (aq) after them). Finally, we cross out any spectator ions. These are the ions that appear on both sides of the ionic equation.

If you are unsure if a compound is soluble when writing net ionic equations you should consult a solubility table for the compound.

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Important Skills

Finding Ionic Charge for Elements:    • Finding the Ionic Charge for Elements...  
Memorizing Polyatomic Ions:    • Memorizing and Using the List of Poly...  
Determining Solublity:    • Solubility of Ionic Compounds: Basics...  
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General Steps:

1. Write the balanced molecular equation.
2. Write the state (s, l, g, aq) for each substance.
3. Split soluble compounds into ions (the complete ionic equation).
4. Cross out the spectator ions on both sides of complete ionic equation.
5. Write the remaining substances as the net ionic equation.
Writing and balancing net ionic equations is an important skill in chemistry and is essential for understanding solubility, electrochemistry, and focusing on the substances and ions involved in the chemical reaction and ignoring those that don’t (the spectator ions).

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