Question

Write the combustion equation for propane (C3H8). What is the sum of the coefficients for the reactants and products? Group of answer choices 13 14 10 11 12

Answer 1

13

Step-by-step explanation:

Let's consider the unbalanced equation for the combustion of propane.

C₃H₈ + O₂ ⇒ CO₂ + H₂O

We will begin balancing H atoms by multiplying H₂O by 4.

C₃H₈ + O₂ ⇒ CO₂ + 4 H₂O

Now, we balance C atoms by multiplying CO₂ by 3.

C₃H₈ + O₂ ⇒ 3 CO₂ + 4 H₂O

Finally, we get the balanced equation multiplying O₂ by 5.

C₃H₈ + 5 O₂ ⇒ 3 CO₂ + 4 H₂O

The sum of the coefficients is 1 + 5 + 3 + 4 = 13.