Which one of the following is the correct dissociation equation for Li2CO3 in water?

• A. Li2CO3 (aq) → 2 Li (s) + CO3 (g)
• B. Li2CO3 (aq) → 2 Li^+ (aq) + CO3^{2-} (aq)
• C. Li2CO3 (aq) → Li2^+ (aq) + CO3^− (aq)
• D. Li2CO3 (aq) → Li^+ (aq) + CO3^{2-} (aq)

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the compound given: Li2CO3 is lithium carbonate, an ionic compound composed of lithium ions (Li^+) and carbonate ions (CO3^{2-}).
2. Recall that when ionic compounds dissolve in water, they dissociate into their constituent ions, each carrying their characteristic charges.
3. Write the dissociation equation by splitting Li2CO3 into its ions: since there are 2 lithium ions per formula unit, write 2 Li^+ ions, and one carbonate ion CO3^{2-}.
4. Express the dissociation equation with aqueous ions and their charges, ensuring charge balance: \(\mathrm{Li_2CO_3 (aq) \rightarrow 2\ Li^{+} (aq) + CO_3^{2-} (aq)}\).
5. Verify that the equation is balanced in terms of both atoms and charge, confirming it represents the correct dissociation in water.