Chapter 9.2, Problem 23PP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Whether in the following reaction, single replacement reaction occur or not and the balanced equation if the reaction occurs needs to be determined.

$\text{Fe}(s)+{\text{Na}}_3{\text{PO}}_4(aq)\to$

Concept introduction:

In a single-replacement reaction, the replacement of atom of an element by the atoms of another element takes place. The replacement depends upon their reactivity. One example showing this type of reaction is,

$\text{A}\text{+}\text{BX}\to \text{AX}\text{+}\text{B}$

Answer to Problem 23PP

The reaction will not occur.

Explanation of Solution

To know the replacement of metal by another metal, the activity series of metals must be followed. Activity series of metals contains a list of metals with decreasing chemical reactivity. Highly reactive metal replaces the least reactive metals from a compound.

In the given reaction two reactants are Iron (Fe) and sodium phosphate ${\text{Na}}_3{\text{PO}}_4$. Iron is less reactive than sodium. So, iron cannot replace sodium from sodium phosphate. So, the reaction will not occur.

Conclusion

Replacement of one metal by another metal can be decided using the activity series of metals.