The above equation represents an acid-base reaction between K2CO3 (potassium carbonate) and HNO3 (nitric acid). The products of the reaction are KNO3 (potassium nitrate), H2O (water), and CO2 (carbon dioxide). This is a neutralization reaction in which nitric acid neutralizes potassium carbonate to form potassium nitrate, water, and carbon dioxide gas.
- Reaction conditions
The reaction occurs at room temperature if both reactants are in aqueous solutions. The reaction also occurs when powdered K2CO3 comes into contact with HNO3 solution.
- Reaction Process
When K2CO3 and HNO3 come into contact with each other, the water compound and CO2 gas are produced and separate from the solution, at which point the K+ and NO3- ions in the solution combine to form KNO3.
- Observed phenomena
When the reaction occurs, there will be a phenomenon of CO2 gas bubbles rising to the surface of the solution. If the reaction takes place in a sealed container, the pressure inside the container will increase due to the production of CO2 gas. If the reaction takes place in an open cup, the CO2 gas will escape into the air.