Question

Using complete sentences, explain how to predict the products and balance the reaction for the combustion of butane,

Answer 1

The products of the reaction of C4H10 with oxygen would be combustion products which are CO2 and H2O. When balancing chemical reactions, it is important to remember that the number of atoms in each side should be equal.

C4H10 + 13/2O2 = 4CO2 + 5H2O

Answer 2

Answer: $2C_4H_{10}+13O_2\rightarrow 8CO_2+10H_2O$

Explanation: Combustion is a reaction in which a hydrocarbon combines with oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water.

Butane $C_4H_{10}$ is a hydrocarbon as it consists of carbon and hydrogen and thus when it combust, it produces carbon dioxide and water.

$2C_4H_{10}+13O_2\rightarrow 8CO_2+10H_2O$

The chemical equation follow the law of conservation of mass, mass can neither be created nor destroyed. The number of  atoms on the product side must be same as the number of atoms on the product side.Thus the equation needs to be balanced.