The reaction equation below shows the formation of aluminum oxide. Which set of coefficients balances the equation?
Al + O2 ?Al2O3
A. 1,1,1
B. 2,3,5
C. 2,4,5
D. 4,3,2
.
can someone help me pleaseee!!
This equation is balanced by trial and error. When you see an uneven set of numbers (O2 on one side and O3 on the other you almost KNOW you must start by looking at a common denominator type. So start by 3O2 and 2Al2O3. Then finish.
To balance a chemical equation, we need to ensure that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation. Let's break down the equation:
Al + O2 → Al2O3
On the left side, we have 1 aluminum atom and 2 oxygen atoms. On the right side, we have 2 aluminum atoms and 3 oxygen atoms.
To balance the equation, we will manipulate the coefficients (the numbers in front of the elements or compounds) to match the number of atoms on each side. Let's try the options given:
A. 1,1,1
This option gives us 1 aluminum atom and 1 oxygen atom on the left side, but 2 aluminum atoms and 3 oxygen atoms on the right side. So it is not balanced.
B. 2,3,5
This option gives us 2 aluminum atoms and 6 oxygen atoms on the left side, but 10 aluminum atoms and 15 oxygen atoms on the right side. So it is not balanced.
C. 2,4,5
This option gives us 2 aluminum atoms and 8 oxygen atoms on the left side, and 2 aluminum atoms and 6 oxygen atoms on the right side. So it is not balanced.
D. 4,3,2
This option gives us 4 aluminum atoms and 6 oxygen atoms on the left side. On the right side, it gives us 2 aluminum atoms and 3 oxygen atoms multiplied by 2, which equals 6 oxygen atoms. So it is balanced.
Therefore, the correct set of coefficients that balances the equation is D. 4,3,2.
Remember, balancing equations requires practice and understanding the concept. Keep practicing, and you will get better at it!