A balanced reaction equation must have the same number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation. The reaction C2H5OH+3O2→2CO2+3H2O represents the combustion of ethanol. Count the atoms of each element on both sides of the reaction. How many of each atom are there on the reactants side?

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Chemistry

Wade Watts

31 August, 02:20

A balanced reaction equation must have the same number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation. The reaction C2H5OH+3O2→2CO2+3H2O represents the combustion of ethanol. Count the atoms of each element on both sides of the reaction. How many of each atom are there on the reactants side?

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Mariana Marshall · Answer 1

Atoms of elements on the reactants side

2 Carbon atoms 6 Hydrogen atoms 7 Oxygen atoms Explanation: The equation; C₂H₅OH + 3O₂ →2CO₂ + 3H₂O is balanced. A balanced chemical equation has an equal number of atoms of each element on either side of the equation. For example, in the equation given, the number of atoms of each element is equal on both sides of the equation. There are 2 carbon atoms, 6 hydrogen atoms, and 7 hydrogen atoms on either side of the equation. According to the law of conservation of mass, the mass of the reactants should be equal to the mass of reactants. Therefore, chemical equations are balanced for them to obey the law of conservation of mass.