Final answer:
The balanced equation for the reaction of molecular nitrogen (N₂) with oxygen (O₂) to form nitrogen monoxide (NO) is N₂(g) + O₂(g) → 2NO(g).
Step-by-step explanation:
The balanced chemical equation for the reaction of molecular nitrogen (N₂) and oxygen (O₂) to produce nitrogen monoxide (NO) is:
N₂ (g) + O₂ (g) → 2NO (g)
The numbers of N and O atoms on either side of the equation are now equal, making the equation balanced. This reaction occurs at high temperatures, such as during lightning strikes, as it is a highly endothermic reaction and nonspontaneous at normal temperatures and pressures.