ion-exchange reaction

An ion-exchange reaction involves swapping one type of ion for another within a material, usually a resin or mineral. Imagine a sponge that holds onto specific charged particles (ions). When a solution passes through, ions in the solution replace the ions attached to the sponge. This process is used to purify water, soften hard water by removing calcium and magnesium ions, or recover valuable metals. It relies on the natural tendency of certain materials to preferentially hold onto specific ions and release others, making it an efficient and selective way to separate or purify substances.