Ionic equations

• Ionic equations are used to model chemical changes involving ions.
• An ion is an electrically charged particle.
• An ion is formed when an atom, or group of atoms, loses or gains electrons.
• Oppositely charged ions in solution may join to form an insoluble solid. This solid is called precipitate.
• In an ionic equation:

  • All substances are shown by their formula
  • The numbers of atoms of each element in the reactants and products are the same
  • The total electrical charge is the same on both sides of the equation
  • You may need to write a number in front of an ion or substance to balance an ionic equation