Question

Balancing chemical equations with interfering

Balance the chemical equation below using the smallest possible whole number stoichiometric coefficients.
CH3,(CH2,),7CH3,(l) + 02,(g) -> CO2,(g) + H2O(g)

Answer 1

C₉H₂₀ (l) + 14O₂ (g) → 9CO₂ (g) + 10H₂O (g)

Step-by-step explanation:

CH₃(CH₂)₇CH₃ (l) + O₂ (g) → CO₂ (g) + H₂O (g)

C₉H₂₀ (l) + O₂ (g) → CO₂ (g) + H₂O (g)

Simply balance each element in turn and then move on to the next one:

1. Balance the C's

C₉H₂₀ (l) + O₂ (g) → 9CO₂ (g) + H₂O (g)

2. Balance H's

C₉H₂₀ (l) + O₂ (g) → 9CO₂ (g) + 10H₂O (g)

3. Balance O's

C₉H₂₀ (l) + 14O₂ (g) → 9CO₂ (g) + 10H₂O (g)

Note how I started with C's as there is only one reagent and one product with C, then the H's, once again only one reagent and one product with H;

These I would say are the easiest so you should start with them;

The O's, on the other hand, there are 2 products with O so leave this one till later;

Moreover, O₂ on the left is on its own, unbonded with any other element so it is easy to balance and can be left to the end.

Tip: Remember to bear in mind the changes in each element as a result of balancing in the previous step