Question

Please Help! 30 PTS. for correct answer and best explanation!

The following chemical equation shows the reaction of methane and oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water.

CH4 + 2O2 ⇒ CO2 + H2O

Balance the above reaction by writing the correct coefficient(s). You may do this by writing what coefficients should be added.
Describe how a balanced equation demonstrates the law of conservation of mass.

Answer 1

`\huge \boxed{\mathrm{CH_4+ 2O_2 \Rightarrow CO_2 +2 H_2O}}`

`\rule[225]{225}{2}`

Step-by-step explanation:

`\sf CH_4+ O_2 \Rightarrow CO_2 + H_2O`

Balancing the Hydrogen atoms on the right side,

`\sf CH_4+ O_2 \Rightarrow CO_2 +2 H_2O`

Balancing the Oxygen atoms on the left side,

`\sf CH_4+ 2O_2 \Rightarrow CO_2 +2 H_2O`

In a balanced equation, the product side and the reactant side must have the same mass of matter, since matter cannot be destroyed or created according to the law.

`\rule[225]{225}{2}`