Question

Balance the following reaction. A coefficient of \"1\" is understood.

C4H10 + O2 → CO2 + H2O.

Answer 1

To balance a reaction, we must say to it that the number of elements in one side is equal to the other side. For a combustion reaction such as the one given, we first need to balance the number of carbon atoms, then the hydrogen atoms and lastly the oxygen atoms.

C4H10 + 13/2O2 → 4CO2 + 5H2O.