Write the net ionic equation describing the reaction between aluminum metal and Fe3+ ions in solution that produces dissolved Al3+ and Fe2+ ions. Be sure to include all states of matter.

Al(s) + Fe³⁺ > Al³⁺(aq)  + Fe²⁺(aq)

Explanation:

The reaction between aluminium metal with an aqueous solution of Fe³⁺ ions to produce Al³⁺ ions and Fe²⁺ ions is a redox reaction in which the aluminium metal is oxidized while the Fe³⁺ ions are reduced.

Oxidation occurs if the oxidation number of an element or ionic species increases in the positive direction whereas reduction occurs when the oxidation number of the reacting species decreases.

The oxidation number of aluminium increases from 0 to +3 whereas  the oxidation number of iron reduces from +3 to =2 in the given reaction.

In a net ionic equation, only the species participating in the reaction are shown.

The equation is given below;

Al(s) + Fe³⁺ > Al³⁺(aq)  + Fe²⁺(aq)