Question

A balanced reaction equation must have the same number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation. The reaction C2H5OH+3O2→2CO2+3H2O represents the combustion of ethanol. Count the atoms of each element on both sides of the reaction. How many of each atom are there on the reactants side?

Answer 1

Answer:

Atoms of elements on the reactants side

• 2 Carbon atoms
• 6 Hydrogen atoms
• 7 Oxygen atoms

Explanation:

• The equation; C₂H₅OH+ 3O₂ →2CO₂+ 3H₂O is balanced.
• A balanced chemical equation has an equal number of atoms of each element on either side of the equation.
• For example, in the equation given, the number of atoms of each element is equal on both sides of the equation.
• There are 2 carbon atoms, 6 hydrogen atoms, and 7 hydrogen atoms on either side of the equation.
• According to the law of conservation of mass, the mass of the reactants should be equal to the mass of reactants.
• Therefore, chemical equations are balanced for them to obey the law of conservation of mass.