Question

Fill in the coefficients that will balance the following reaction: Zn +Fe(NO3)2---ZnNO3+Fe

Answer 1

In order to balance reactions, the number of each element must be the same on the left and right side. If I have 3 of element X on one side, I must have 3 of element X on the other side. That being said:

Zn + Fe(NO3)2 —> ZnNO3 + Fe

I have two NO3 groups on the left, so I will add a coefficient of 2 in front of the compound which has an NO3 group on the right side.

Zn + Fe(NO3)2 —> 2ZnNO3 + Fe

Since I now have 2 Zn’s on the right, and only 1 on the left, I will add a coefficient of 2 in front of Zn on the left.

2Zn + Fe(NO3)2 —> 2ZnNO3 + Fe

Lets check:
Zn: 2 right, 2 left (correct)
Fe: 1 right, 1 left (correct)
NO3 groups: 2 right, 2 left

We have successfully balanced the equation. :)