Question

Solid lithium metal and diatomic nitrogen gas react spontaneously to form a solid product. Give the balanced chemical equation (including phases) that describes this reaction. Indicate the phases using abbreviation (s), (l), or (g) for solid, liquid, or gas, respectively. Express your answer as a chemical equation.

Answer 1

Answer 2

6 Li(s) + N₂(g) → 2 Li₃N(s)

Why?

• Lithium (Li) is a highly reactive alkali metal (solid at room temp).

• Nitrogen (N₂) is diatomic and fairly inert, but reacts vigorously with lithium.

• The product, lithium nitride (Li₃N), is a solid ionic compound.

• Balancing act: Each Li₃N unit needs 3 Li atoms, so we use 6 Li and 1 N₂ to make 2 Li₃N (to keep atoms equal on both sides).

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Fun fact: This reaction happens spontaneously because lithium "wants" to donate electrons to nitrogen, forming a stable compound.

Answer:
The reaction between solid lithium (Li) and nitrogen gas (N₂) forms solid lithium nitride (Li₃N). Here’s the balanced equation: