When Al2C3 (aluminum carbide) and Be2 (beryllium) react with water, they undergo hydrolysis reactions, resulting in the formation of different compounds. Here are the reactions:
Hydrolysis of Al2C3: Al2C3 + 9H2O → 2Al(OH)3 + 3CH4
In this reaction, aluminum carbide reacts with water to form aluminum hydroxide [Al(OH)3] and methane gas (CH4).
Hydrolysis of Be2: Be2 + 2H2O → 2Be(OH)2
Beryllium reacts with water to form beryllium hydroxide [Be(OH)2].
It's important to note that beryllium hydroxide is amphoteric, meaning it can react both as a base and as an acid. In the presence of excess hydroxide ions, it can form soluble beryllate ions, while in the presence of excess hydrogen ions, it can form soluble beryllium ions.
The hydrolysis reactions of Al2C3 and Be2 are important in understanding their chemical reactivity and behavior when exposed to water.