Question

What are the missing coefficents for the following equation? __N2+__H2->__NH3

Answer 1

Answer:

1, 3, 2

Explanation:

N2 + H2 → NH3

I usually find that the best way to systematically balance an equation by inspection is to start with the most complicated-looking formula and then balance atoms in the order:

1. All atoms other than O and H
2. O
3. H

(a) The most complicated formula is NH3.

(b) Balance N.

We have 1 H in NH3, but 2 N on the left. We need 2 N on the right. Put a 1 in front of N2 and a 2 in front of NH3.

1N2 + H2 → 2NH3

(c) Balance H.

We have fixed 6 H on the right, so we need 6 H on the left. Put a 3 in front of H2.

1N2 + 3H2 → 2NH3

The equation is now balanced, and the coefficients are 1, 3, 2.