Complete and balance the following equation for H^3PO^4(aq) + Ca(OH)^2(aq).  Provide an ionic equation and a net ionic equation.

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H3PO4 + Ca(OH)2

First lets create a balanced chemical equation for these reactants.  Phosphoric acid donates 3 protons and calcium hydroxide donates 2 hydroxide anions.  So add coefficients to make a total of 6 of both species.

2H3PO4 + 3Ca(OH)2 --> 6H2O + Ca3(PO4)2

The ionic equation is written with all of the ions as separate species.  Calcium phosphate is soluble in water so it too will appear as ions.

6H+ + 2(PO4)3- + 3Ca2+ + 6OH- --> 6H2O + 3Ca2+ + 2(PO4)3-

The net ionic equation eliminates the spectator ions, or the ions that do not participate in the reaction.  This eliminates the calcium and phosphate ions.

6H+ + 6OH- --> 6H2O

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