What coefficient is needed in front of the O₂ molecule to balance the following equation? 2 C4H10 (g)+ _____ O₂ (g)→ 8 CO₂ (g)+ 10 H₂O (l)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To balance the equation, start by balancing elements that appear in only one reactant and one product. Here, carbon (C) and hydrogen (H) are balanced with 8 CO₂ and 10 H₂O, respectively. Next, balance oxygen (O). The products have 8(2) = 16 O from CO₂ and 10 O from H₂O, totaling 26 O atoms. Since O₂ has 2 O atoms, you need 26/2 = 13 O₂ molecules to balance the oxygen, making the correct coefficient 13.

What Coefficient Is Needed in Front of the O₂ Molecule