Questions: What is the balanced chemical equation for the combustion of methane?
Transcript text: What is the balanced chemical equation for the combustion of methane?
Solution
Solution Steps
Step 1: Identify the Reactants and Products
The combustion of methane involves methane (CH4) and oxygen (O2) as reactants. The products of this reaction are carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O).
Step 2: Write the Unbalanced Equation
The unbalanced chemical equation for the combustion of methane is:
CH4+O2→CO2+H2O
Step 3: Balance the Equation
To balance the equation, ensure that the number of each type of atom is the same on both sides of the equation.
Carbon atoms: There is 1 carbon atom in CH4 and 1 in CO2. This is already balanced.
Hydrogen atoms: There are 4 hydrogen atoms in CH4 and 2 in each H2O. To balance, place a coefficient of 2 in front of H2O:
CH4+O2→CO2+2H2O
Oxygen atoms: There are 2 oxygen atoms in CO2 and 2 in 2H2O, totaling 4 oxygen atoms needed on the product side. Therefore, place a coefficient of 2 in front of O2:
CH4+2O2→CO2+2H2O
Final Answer
The balanced chemical equation for the combustion of methane is:
CH4+2O2→CO2+2H2O