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Chapter 15: Problem 221

An aqueous solution containing \(\mathrm{CN}^{-}\) ions turns litmus blue. Write an equation showing how \(\mathrm{CN}^{-}\) makes water basic.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The cyanide ion \(\mathrm{CN}^{-}\) makes water basic by accepting a proton (\(\mathrm{H}^+\)) from water, resulting in the formation of hydrocyanic acid (\(\mathrm{HCN}\)) and hydroxide ion (\(\mathrm{OH}^-\)). The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is \(\mathrm{CN}^{-} + \mathrm{H_2O} \rightleftharpoons \mathrm{HCN} + \mathrm{OH}^-\). The increased concentration of \(\mathrm{OH}^-\) ions makes the solution basic, causing the litmus paper to turn blue.

Step by step solution

01

Identify the reaction participants

The given problem states cyanide ions \(\mathrm{CN}^{-}\) cause the aqueous solution to be basic and the experiment involves water. So, the participants of the reaction are \(\mathrm{CN}^{-}\) and water (\(\mathrm{H_2O}\)).
02

Write the balanced chemical equation

Now, using the known properties of CN⁻ ion and water, let's write a balanced chemical equation for the reaction between them. We know that \(\mathrm{CN}^-\) can act as a Lewis base. It accepts a proton (\(\mathrm{H}^+\)) from water. The equation for this reaction is: \[ \mathrm{CN}^{-} + \mathrm{H_2O} \rightleftharpoons \mathrm{HCN} + \mathrm{OH}^- \]
03

Identify why the water turns basic

Upon interaction with CN⁻ ions, some water molecules get converted into \(\mathrm{OH}^-\) ions, increasing the concentration of hydroxide ions. A higher concentration of \(\mathrm{OH}^-\) ions makes the solution basic, and that is why the litmus paper turns blue, indicating a basic solution.

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