Question

In two or more complete sentences, explain how to balance the combustion equation:

___C5H12 + ___O2 ⟶ ___CO2 + ___H2O

Answer 1

1. Pick the most complicated-looking formula (C_5H_12) and balance its atoms (C and H).

This gives

1C_5H_12 + ___O_2 → 5CO_2 + 6H_2O

2. Balance the remaining atoms (O).

This gives

1C_5H_12 + 8O_2 → 5CO_2 + 6H_2O