Reacting acids with carbonates
4 marks · Normal| Carbonate | Acid used | Colour before | Colour after | Gas formed | Other changes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copper(II) carbonate | sulfuric acid | green | blue | yes | solution forms |
| Sodium carbonate | hydrochloric acid | white | colourless | yes | solution forms |
| Calcium carbonate | nitric acid | white | colourless | yes | solid disappears |
Use the table above.
State the general word equation for the reaction between an acid and a carbonate, based on the observations.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
carbonate + acid → salt + carbon dioxide + water
Also accept: acid + carbonate → salt + water + carbon dioxide
Common mistakes: Forgetting water as a product; Confusion about gas formed
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · Identifies that a gas (carbon dioxide) is formed
B2 · 1 mark · States that a solution (salt) forms or a solid disappears
B3 · 1 mark · Describes colour change (or lack thereof) as evidence
B4 · 1 mark · Correctly states the general word equation: carbonate + acid → salt + carbon dioxide + water
Worked solution
All reactions show a carbonate with an acid forming a solution (salt), releasing gas (CO2), and with a colour change or dissolution.
General word equation: