Question

Balance the following equations by writing the coefficients in the space provided. Then classify each of the following reactions by writing the name of the type of reaction on the line. Choose from synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, double replacement, and combustion___CH4 + ___O2 → ___CO2 + ___H2O _________________

Answer 1

To balance the equation we start by counting the number of atoms we have of each element on each side of the reaction.

Reagents side:

C=1 atom

H= 4 atoms

O= 2 atoms

Products side:

C=1 atom

O= 3 atoms

H= 2 atoms

The carbon is balanced, let's start by balancing the hydrogen. We have 4 hydrogens on the reactant side and 2 on the product side.

To have the same number we must place the coefficient 2 in the H2O molecule as follows.

`CH_4+O_2\rightarrow CO_2+2H_2O`

Now we must balance the oxygen. On the reactants side, we have 2 and on the products side, we have 4. Then we put the coefficient two in the O2 molecule and we have our balanced equation.

`CH_4+2O_2\rightarrow CO_2+2H_2O`

Reagents side:

C=1 atom

H= 4 atoms

O= 4 atoms

Products side:

C=1 atom

O= 4 atoms

H= 4 atoms

We have the same number of atoms of each element on both sides of the reaction. So the equation is balanced.

Now, we see in the reaction a fuel, methane (CH4) reacting with oxygen. This type of reaction is combustion and generates a large amount of energy producing CO2 and water