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The following equation shows the correct molecules formed in the reaction, but the products are incorrect.

CH4 +2O2 → H2O + CO2
How would you correct the products? Explain your reasoning.

2 Answers

5 votes
The answer is 202 CO2 CH4 H2O
User Pedro Oliveira
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3 votes

Answer: The reactants have four hydrogen atoms and four oxygen atoms. On the other hand, the products have just two hydrogen atoms and three oxygen atoms. So, to balance the chemical equation, there should be two more hydrogen atoms and one more oxygen atom. This imbalance can be corrected by placing the number 2 in front of H2O on the reactants' side.

User Nourdine
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5.2k points