Final answer:
The coefficient '6' in '6O2' indicates that there are six moles of diatomic oxygen molecules involved in a chemical reaction, equating to a total of twelve atoms of oxygen.
Step-by-step explanation:
The coefficient in a chemical equation represents the number of units (moles) of the substance involved in the reaction. In the context of the chemical formula '6O2', the coefficient '6' indicates that there are six moles of molecular oxygen participating in the reaction. Each oxygen molecule is comprised of two oxygen atoms, as indicated by the subscript '2'. The overall interpretation is that there are six moles of diatomic oxygen molecules, equating to a total of twelve atoms of oxygen.
It is important to remember that a coefficient affects the entire formula that follows it. This concept helps in balancing chemical equations, ensuring that the law of conservation of mass is observed. Without the proper coefficients, the equation would not accurately represent the stoichiometry of the reaction. A coefficient of '1' is typically omitted in chemical equations, as it is implied.