Question

How do you write chemical equations using the modified Arrhenius theory?

a) By balancing the number of atoms on each side of the equation
b) By representing chemical reactions in terms of ions
c) By calculating the activation energy of the reaction
d) By determining the rate constant of the reaction

Answer 1

To write chemical equations using modified Arrhenius theory, identify correct formulas, write the skeleton equation, and then balance by adjusting coefficients, ensuring the conservation of mass.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of modified Arrhenius theory, writing chemical equations involves first identifying the correct chemical formulas for each reactant and product and then writing the skeleton equation. Once the skeleton equation is in place, one must balance the number of atoms for each element and polyatomic ion (if unchanged in the reaction) on both sides of the equation. This is accomplished by adding coefficients in front of the chemical formulas as needed. It is important to remember that subscripts in the formulas are not to be altered, as they represent the fixed composition of the molecules or complexes.

Here is the general process:

Determine the correct chemical formulas for reactants and products.

Write the skeleton equation with these formulas.

Balance the equation by adding coefficients to make the number of atoms of each element equal on both sides.

Ensure polyatomic ions that appear unchanged on both sides are counted as units.

Validate that all elements and polyatomic ions are balanced.

Adjust coefficients to the lowest possible ratio to simplify the equation.

For instance, to balance the equation of an acid reacting with an Arrhenius base, determine the products, write the unbalanced equation, and add coefficients to ensure the conservation of mass.