Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A net ionic equation shows only the chemical species that are involved in a reaction, omitting the spectator ions. It simplifies reactions by highlighting the actual changes occurring.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Net ionic equations focus on the substances that change state or composition during the reaction.
Spectator ions, which do not participate in the reaction, are omitted from net ionic equations.
To write a net ionic equation, start with a balanced molecular equation and then separate strong electrolytes into their ions.
The charges and number of atoms must balance on both sides of the net ionic equation.
Net ionic equations are particularly useful for reactions in aqueous solutions where many compounds dissociate into ions.
Review Questions
Related terms
Spectator Ion: An ion that does not undergo any chemical change during a reaction and is not included in the net ionic equation.
Molecular Equation: A chemical equation that shows all reactants and products as compounds without indicating their ionic nature.
Ionic Equation: $$\text{A chemical equation that shows all strong electrolytes dissociated into their constituent ions.}$$