Question

Choose the correct coefficients for the skeleton equation for the reaction _____H₃PO₄(aq) + ______KOH(aq) ⟶ _____K₃PO₄(aq) + _____H₂O(l) fill in the blanks in the equation. a. 1,3,1,3b. 3,1,3,1c. 2,3,1,3d. 2,3,2,3,

Answer 1

`H_3PO_4\mleft(aq\mright)+3KOH\mleft(aq\mright)\longrightarrow K_3PO_4\mleft(aq\mright)+3H_2O\mleft(l\mright)`

When we balance a reaction (of neutralization in this case) like this, first, focus on the main element that forms hydroxides and acids. In this reaction, those elements are P and K.

We must have the same number of atoms on the right and on the left.

We have 1 P on both sides. Now the K aren't equal, so we multiply by 3 on the left side of the reaction.

After that, we focus on water to balance the Hydrogen and Oxygen elements. On the left, we have 6 H and 7 O, so we multiply H2O by 3 on the right.

To complete the question, you must fill in the gaps.

Answer: a. 1,3,1,3