Question

Propane reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water according to the following equation: C3H8 + 5O2 → 3CO2 + 4H2O. Which ratio of components is correct?

A) For each mole of oxygen that reacts, 3 moles of carbon dioxide are produced.
B) For every 3 moles of carbon dioxide produced, 5 moles of oxygen react.
C) For each mole of propane that reacts, 5 moles of oxygen are produced.
D) For every 4 moles of water produced, 3 moles of propane react.

Answer 1

The balanced equation for the combustion of propane indicates that the correct ratio is for every 3 moles of carbon dioxide produced, 5 moles of oxygen react (Option B).

Step-by-step explanation:

The balanced chemical equation for the combustion of propane (C3H8) with oxygen (O2) to produce carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) is C3H8 + 5O2 → 3CO2 + 4H2O. This equation indicates the stoichiometric relationships between the reactants and products. From the equation, we can determine that the correct ratio of components is: Option B - For every 3 moles of carbon dioxide produced, 5 moles of oxygen react. To support this, the balanced equation shows that carbon dioxide is produced from propane in a 3:1 ratio, and for every mole of propane that reacts, 5 moles of oxygen are required.