Question

__ P4(s) + __ O2(g) → __ P4O10(s) To balance this reaction equation, first write correct formulas for the reactants and products, leaving the stoichiometric coefficients blank. We will balance P first. How many P4 molecules are needed to balance P for each P4O10?

Answer 1

Answer:

P4(s) + 5 O2 (g)→ P4O10

Explanation:

If we desire to write a balanced chemical reaction equation, the rule of thumb is simple; the number of atoms of each element on the right hand side of the reaction equation must be the same as the number of atoms of the same element on the left hand side of the reaction equation. Once this condition is satisfied, the reaction equation is said to be balanced.

As we can see, we need one mole of P4 and five moles of O2 to produce one mole of P4O10.