Leana0idn
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What coefficient is needed in front of H2O to balance the equation below?

What Coefficient Is Needed In Front Of H2O To Balance The Equation Below class=

Sagot :

LammettHashidn

Let a, b, c be the coefficients in the balanced reaction,

a P₄O₁₀ + b H₂O   ⇒   c H₃PO₄

Count the number of each atom on either side of the reaction:

• P : 4a = c

• O : 10a + b = 4c

• H : 2b = 3c

Suppose a = 1. Then from the first equation,

c = 4•1   ⇒   c = 4

and from the third equation,

2b = 3•4 = 12   ⇒   b = 6

The third equation is also satisfied:

10a + b = 4c   ⇒   10•1 + 6 = 4•4   ⇒   16 = 16

So, the balanced reaction is

P₄O₁₀ + 6 H₂O   ⇒  4 H₃PO₄

which makes D the correct answer.