What do you understand by precipitation reaction? Explain with suitable examples.

The reaction in which two compounds in their aqueous state react to form an insoluble compound. When two reactants react and product formed remains insoluble and settles as a solid it is substance (precipitate) is called a precipitation reaction.

For example,

(i) When aqueous solution of sodium sulphate is mixed with an aqueous solution or barium chloride, barium sulphate is obtained as a white precipitate.

Na₂SO₄ (aq) + BaCl₂ (aq) → BaSO₄ (s) + 2NaCl (ag)

(ii) When aqueous solution of sodium chloride is mixed with an aqueous solution of silver nitrate, silver chloride is obtained as a white precipitate.