Question

Trisodium phosphate (TSP) is an effective grease remover. Like many cleaners, TSP acts as a base in water. Write a balanced equation to account for this basic behavior.

Short answer

The balanced chemical equation for trisodium phosphate (TSP) acting as a base in water is: Na3PO4 (aq) + H2O (l) -> 2 OH- (aq) + Na2HPO4 (aq)

Step-by-step solution

Write the chemical formula for trisodium phosphate and water

The chemical formula for trisodium phosphate is Na3PO4, and the formula for water is H2O. We'll be examining the behavior of these two compounds when they interact with each other.

Determine how trisodium phosphate behaves as a base in water

As a base, trisodium phosphate will accept a proton (H+) from water. Therefore, one of the hydrogen atoms from water will be donated to one of the oxygen atoms in the trisodium phosphate ion. This process creates a hydroxide ion (OH-) and a new compound, which is the conjugate acid of trisodium phosphate.

Write the balanced chemical equation

When trisodium phosphate accepts a proton from water, the balanced chemical equation can be written as: Na3PO4 (aq) + H2O (l) -> 2 OH- (aq) + Na2HPO4 (aq) Here, trisodium phosphate (Na3PO4) reacts with water (H2O), forming hydroxide ions (OH-) and a conjugate acid of trisodium phosphate (Na2HPO4). This equation demonstrates the basic behavior of trisodium phosphate when dissolved in water.