Suppose aqueous solutions of barium nitrate and potassium carbonate are mixed. What is the name of the compound that precipitates?

• A. Barium carbonate
• B. Potassium nitrate
• C. Potassium carbonate
• D. Barium nitrate

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the reactants: Barium nitrate (Ba(NO₃)₂) and potassium carbonate (K₂CO₃).
2. Write the balanced chemical equation for the reaction: Ba(NO₃)₂ (aq) + K₂CO₃ (aq) → BaCO₃ (s) + 2 KNO₃ (aq).
3. Determine the solubility of the products: Barium carbonate (BaCO₃) is insoluble in water, while potassium nitrate (KNO₃) is soluble.
4. Identify the precipitate: Since barium carbonate is insoluble, it will form a solid precipitate in the solution.
5. Conclude that the compound that precipitates is barium carbonate (BaCO₃).