Chemical Forums

Chemistry Forums for Students => High School Chemistry Forum => Topic started by: ilatan5 on October 15, 2005, 02:06:43 AM

Title: Specific Dehydration Problem
Post by: ilatan5 on October 15, 2005, 02:06:43 AM

I feel so stupid right now.  I am working on a lab for tomorrow morning and I skipped one question for almost a week.  It is the most simple question, but I guess I just don't see where to go with it.

Write a balanced equation (showing all states) which represents the complete dehydration of the compound Na2So4.

I know, it is a simple question but what do I do?  I just can't seem to get an equation.  I have forgotten how to to dehydration.  Its okay, you can laugh I know I am slightly stupid. :-[

Title: Re:Specific Dehydration Problem
Post by: Borek on October 15, 2005, 06:32:23 AM

Hydrated sodium sulfate is Na₂SO₄^.10H₂O. WHile dehydrating it will loose water particles one by one in ten steps.

Title: Re:Specific Dehydration Problem
Post by: ilatan5 on October 15, 2005, 07:56:35 PM

DUH, I totally get it now.  The reaction is so simple, I guess I was just over thinking it.

Na2So4~10H2O (s)----->Na2So4 (s) + 10 H20 (g)

Title: Re:Specific Dehydration Problem
Post by: Borek on October 15, 2005, 08:14:28 PM

You are asked for all states. I have no idea which hydrates are stable, but I suppose there are several stages of dehydration.