Net Ionic Equation Calculator
Net ionic equation calculator: pick a common aqueous reaction and see the full molecular equation, spectator ions and net ionic equation.
Editorial review: Farrow (pseudonym; identity and professional credentials are not disclosed). This page is for educational purposes, not professional advice.
Your inputs
Results update as you type. Nothing you enter leaves your device.
Results
- Full molecular equation
- BaCl₂(aq) + Na₂SO₄(aq) → BaSO₄(s) + 2NaCl(aq)
- Spectator ions
- Na⁺, Cl⁻
Example with the starting values
These results use the calculator's initial inputs. Change the values above to calculate your own estimate.
Inputs
- Reaction
- BaCl₂ + Na₂SO₄ → BaSO₄ + NaCl
Results
- Net ionic equation
- Ba²⁺(aq) + SO₄²⁻(aq) → BaSO₄(s)
- Full molecular equation
- BaCl₂(aq) + Na₂SO₄(aq) → BaSO₄(s) + 2NaCl(aq)
- Spectator ions
- Na⁺, Cl⁻
How does the Net Ionic Equation Calculator work?
A net ionic equation removes spectator ions, the ions that appear unchanged on both sides, leaving only the species that actually react, usually forming a precipitate, gas or water.
Pick a common double-replacement or acid-base reaction below to see its full molecular equation alongside the net ionic equation and the spectator ions removed.
For example, mixing BaCl₂(aq) and Na₂SO₄(aq) gives the full equation BaCl₂(aq) + Na₂SO₄(aq) → BaSO₄(s) + 2NaCl(aq); removing the spectator ions Na⁺ and Cl⁻ leaves the net ionic equation Ba²⁺(aq) + SO₄²⁻(aq) → BaSO₄(s).
Frequently asked questions
What is a spectator ion?
An ion present in the same form on both sides of a reaction, like Na⁺ or Cl⁻ that stay dissolved and don't form a new product.
Why write the net ionic equation?
It shows the actual chemical change, such as precipitate formation, without the dissolved ions that don't participate.
How do I know what precipitates?
Use solubility rules: reactions here are chosen because one product is insoluble, a gas, or a weak electrolyte like water.
Is this a full ionic equation calculator too?
Yes. As a net ionic equation solver it also shows the full ionic equation (all ions shown dissolved) before the spectator ions calculator step removes spectators.
How do I balance a net ionic equation?
Balance the atoms first, then balance the charge on each side by matching the coefficients of the ions that actually react.