Question

When the equation below is properly balanced with the LOWEST whole number coefficients, the coefficient for H º is?

1) 2
2) 4
3) 6
4) 8

Answer 1

The coefficient for H º in the balanced equation is 2.

Step-by-step explanation:

The coefficient for H º in the balanced equation is 2.

The balanced equation 2H₂ + O₂ → 2H₂O has a 2:1:2 ratio for the coefficients. This means that for every 2 molecules of hydrogen gas (H₂) and 1 molecule of oxygen gas (O₂) that react, 2 molecules of water (H₂O) are formed.

Therefore, the coefficient for H º is 2, which indicates that there are 2 moles of hydrogen gas involved in the reaction.