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Net ionic equation calculator

Cancel spectator ions from a balanced complete ionic equation, checking atom and charge conservation and reducing the remaining coefficients.

Calculator

Enter a balanced complete ionic equation. Use space + space between species, ^+ or ^2- for charge, and optional leading coefficients.

Net ionic equation
Ag^+(aq) + Cl^-(aq) -> AgCl(s)
Cancelled species
SpeciesCoefficient cancelled per side
NO3^-(aq)1.000000
Na^+(aq)1.000000
Complete equation conservation
Element or chargeReactantsProducts
Ag1.0000001.000000
N1.0000001.000000
O3.0000003.000000
Na1.0000001.000000
Cl1.0000001.000000
charge0.0000000.000000

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How this calculator works

First write and balance the complete ionic equation using the known physical states and electrolyte behaviour. This tool checks atoms and net charge, then removes exactly matching species from both sides and reduces the remaining ratio. It does not infer dissociation from a molecular formula: aqueous weak acids, molecular solutes and solids must be represented correctly before entry. Charge syntax is explicit, for example Fe^3+(aq), SO4^2-(aq) or e^-. States must match for cancellation.

Formula

Cancel min(left coefficient, right coefficient) for each identical species, then divide all remaining coefficients by their greatest common divisor.

Worked example

Ag+ + NO3- + Na+ + Cl- -> AgCl(s) + Na+ + NO3- reduces to Ag+ + Cl- -> AgCl(s). A strong acid-base equation reduces to H+ + OH- -> H2O.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I paste a molecular equation?

Only if its molecular species already represent the reacting particles. Split strong aqueous electrolytes into ions yourself.

Should solids be split?

No. Keep precipitates, liquids, gases and weak electrolytes intact when appropriate.

What if everything cancels?

The result says no net reaction for the supplied complete ionic equation.

Sources

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