Question

When the following equation is balanced, what is the coefficient for NaNO3?

Answer 1

The coefficient for NaNO₃ = 6

Further explanation

Equalization of chemical reaction equations can be done using variables. Steps in equalizing the reaction equation:  

• 1. gives a coefficient on substances involved in the equation of reaction such as a, b, or c etc.  

• 2. make an equation based on the similarity of the number of atoms where the number of atoms = coefficient × index between reactant and product  

• 3. Select the coefficient of the substance with the most complex chemical formula equal to 1  

Reaction

AI(NO₃)₃ +Na₂SO₄ → Al₂(SO₄) + NaNO₃

give coefficient

aAI(NO₃)₃ +bNa₂SO₄ → Al₂(SO₄)₃ +c NaNO₃

Al, left=a, right=2⇒a=2

N, left=3a, right=c⇒3a=c⇒3.2=c⇒c=6

Na, left=2b, right=c⇒2b=c⇒2b=6⇒b=3

The equation becomes :

2AI(NO₃)₃ +3Na₂SO₄ → Al₂(SO₄)₃ +6NaNO₃