[bbro1997]

Can polyatomic ions be involved in single replacement reactions? If so, are they easily replaced by monatomic catioms, and would the reaction create a free polyatomic ion? For example:

3NH4Cl (aq) + Al (s) > AlCl3 (aq) + ?

Would a reaction like this even occur? If so, would it create free NH4 or would it decompose into something else?

[Hunter2]

if the reaction takes place you will get hydrogen and ammonia.

[bbro1997]

OK, so I assume it would be the same for other polyatomic ions too? Like CO3 > CO2 + O2, SO4 > SO2 + O2, etc. What would OH decompose into though?

Also, what are the potentials of these polyatomic ions to be replaced in a single replacement reaction by monatomic ions?

[Hunter2]

CO₃^2-, SO₄^2- and OH^- are stable.

But you can decompose a salt like CaCO₃ => CaO + CO₂, CaSO₄ => CaO + SO₃ and Ca(OH)₂ => CaO + H₂O

[bbro1997]

Alright. So does anyone know about how easily they are displaced in single replacement reaction? This is what I'm most interested in knowing.

[Borek]

Define "easily".

[bbro1997]

Essentially I mean how would it rank in a table of reduction potential? Can aluminum replace it? Can copper? Just assume it is an aqueous solution at room temperature.

[Borek]

How do you want the CO₃^2- to be replaced by Al? No idea what it is that you are asking, and it seems to be changing between posts.

[bbro1997]

I mostly want to know what is capable of replacing ammonium in single replacement, but it would also be nice to know what can replace the polyatomic ions as well.