Question

When balanced, the coefficients in the following equation add up to what?

Mg(NO3)2 + K3PO4 → Mg3(PO4)2 + KNO3
(A) 16
(B) 17
(C) 18
(D) 19

Answer 1

The sum of the coefficients in the balanced equation Mg(NO3)2 + K3PO4 → Mg3(PO4)2 + KNO3 is 12 after balancing (3+2+1+6). None of the provided answer options match this total, indicating a possible error in the question.

Step-by-step explanation:

To balance the given chemical equation, we must first identify the correct coefficients that balance the number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation. The balanced equation is:

3 Mg(NO₃)₂ + 2 K₃PO₄ → Mg₃(PO₄)₂ + 6 KNO₃

This gives us coefficient totals of:

• 3 (Magnesium Nitrate)
• 2 (Potassium Phosphate)
• 1 (Magnesium Phosphate)
• 6 (Potassium Nitrate)

Adding these together (3+2+1+6), the coefficients in the balanced equation add up to 12, which is not an option given in your question. Make sure that the options provided (16, 17, 18, 19) are accurate. If the premise of the question is mistaken, please revise the question accordingly. The balancing process involves ensuring the same number of each type of atom on both sides of the equation, which is consistent with the law of conservation of mass.