Solutions and the Common Ion Effect
When an electrolyte dissolves in solution, its associated ion pair dissociates into separate cations and anions. The equilibrium concentration of ions dissolved in solution is denoted by the solubility product constant (Ksp). However, what would happen if extra ions were added to a solution at equilibrium? This effect, the common ion effect, will be demonstrated through two examples.
Common Ion Effect - Example 1
A solution of dissolved CaCO3 is at equilibrium. What would happen to the amount of dissolved CaCO3 if CaCl2 is added to the solution?
Applying Le Chatelier’s principle, a secondary equilibrium will begin, where CaCl2 will dissolve and dissociate to form calcium ions and chloride ions that will freely interact with solution. Both equilibria present in the solution share a common ion, calcium. The dissolution of CaCl2 increases the total amount of calcium ion present in solution. Remembering that the dissolution of CaCO3 is at equilibrium, an increase in the concentration of calcium will increase the ion product (Q) of CaCO3 past its Ksp. When Q > Ksp, excess solute precipitates out of solution. In this case, excess Ca2+ will combine with CO32-, forming solid CaCO3, which precipitates until Q = Ksp. The take home point here is that addition of a common ion will decrease solubility, potentially forcing some excess ion to form a precipitate.
Common Ion Effect - Example 2
A solution of dissolved CaCO3 is at equilibrium. What would happen to the amount of dissolved CaCO3 if HCl is added to the solution?
Recognizing that HCl is a strong acid and that CO3 is a weak base, we can predict that the two are going to undergo a neutralization reaction. As the hydrogen chloride protonates the bicarbonate, carbonate will be removed from solution. If ions are removed from equilibrium, we will reach a situation where Q < Ksp. When Q < Ksp, the reaction is unsaturated, and fewer ions are dissolved in solution than will be at equilibrium. To increase the ion product (Q), calcium carbonate will dissociate further into calcium and bicarbonate ions, until Q = Ksp. The take home point from this is example is that removal of a common ion will increase solubility.
