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Which of the following coefficients is needed to balance the combustion reaction of methane? a.3 b.2 c.4 d.equation is already balanced

2 Answers

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Final answer:

The given methane combustion equation is balanced with a 1:2:1:2 ratio, indicating no additional coefficients are needed, so the answer is d. equation is already balanced.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student has asked about finding the correct coefficient to balance the combustion reaction of methane, which is a common type of chemical equation in chemistry. Looking at the provided equations, option b for the reaction of methane (CH₄) with oxygen (O₂) shows CH₄(g) + 2O₂(g) → CO₂(g) + 2H₂O(l). This chemical equation is already balanced, demonstrating the conservation of mass where each atom's count is the same on both sides of the equation. Thus, the correct answer is d. equation is already balanced.

Methane combines with two molecules of oxygen to produce one molecule of carbon dioxide and two molecules of water, reflecting a 1:2:1:2 ratio. Balancing a chemical equation ensures that the same number of atoms for each element is present on both sides of the equation. This concept is imperative in understanding chemical reactions and stoichiometry.

User Uthark
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i might go with d it seems right to me hope this helps.