HW #L 11

[skyeblee2F]

For this problem, it asks to find the mass of HCl that can neutralize Mg(OH)2. In the solutions manual, it appears that we have to come up with our own formula, based on the given formula with CaCO3. How do I come up with this on my own? As in how do I know what pairs up with what?

[Maya_Peterson1C]

When something is neutralized, water is formed. So, taking the reactants of that second equation, Mg(OH)2 and HCl, you would have H2O as a product. This would be formed from the OH- in the Mg(OH)2 and the H+ from the HCl. Then, the remaining Mg2- and Cl- ions would form a compound, MgCl2. Once you have this, you would have to balance the chemical equation.

Hope this helps!