how do oxygen, and hydrogen combine
They combine in a chemical reaction to make H2O
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Oxygen and hydrogen can combine to form water through a chemical reaction called a combustion reaction. The equation for this reaction is:
2H2 + O2 -> 2H2O
To explain how the combination of oxygen and hydrogen occurs, we need to understand the atomic structure of these elements. Hydrogen (H) has one proton and one electron, while oxygen (O) has eight protons, eight neutrons, and eight electrons.
During the reaction, the hydrogen molecules (H2) and oxygen molecules (O2) collide, break apart the molecular bonds, and then form new bonds to create water (H2O). This process involves the transfer of electrons between atoms.
To get water from oxygen and hydrogen, you need to follow these steps:
1. Determine the balanced chemical equation: In this case, it is 2H2 + O2 -> 2H2O. This equation represents the stoichiometrically balanced reaction.
2. Prepare the reactants: Measure out the appropriate amounts of hydrogen and oxygen. For every two hydrogen molecules (H2), you'll need one oxygen molecule (O2) to ensure a balanced reaction.
3. Provide an ignition source: Typically, a spark or flame is required to initiate the combustion reaction. This provides the necessary activation energy to break the existing bonds within the molecules.
4. Allow the reaction to occur: Once the ignition source is applied, the hydrogen and oxygen molecules will break apart and reform as water molecules (H2O).
5. Observe and collect the product: As the reaction progresses, you will observe the formation of water vapor (steam). This vapor condenses back into a liquid state to form water.
It is important to note that the combustion of hydrogen and oxygen to form water is a highly exothermic reaction, releasing a significant amount of energy in the form of heat and light.