Questions: SiO2(s) + C(s) → Si(s) + CO(g)

Solution Steps

The reactants are solid silicon dioxide (\(\mathrm{SiO}_2\)) and solid carbon (\(\mathrm{C}\)). The products are solid silicon (\(\mathrm{Si}\)) and carbon monoxide gas (\(\mathrm{CO}\)).

Write the chemical equation with the identified reactants and products: \[ \mathrm{SiO}_{2}(\mathrm{~s}) + \mathrm{C}(\mathrm{s}) \rightarrow \mathrm{Si}(\mathrm{s}) + \mathrm{CO}(\mathrm{g}) \]

Balance the equation by ensuring the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides.

• Silicon (Si): 1 atom on both sides.
• Oxygen (O): 2 atoms on the left, 1 atom on the right.
• Carbon (C): 1 atom on the left, 1 atom on the right.

To balance the oxygen atoms, we need 2 carbon monoxide molecules on the right side: \[ \mathrm{SiO}_{2}(\mathrm{~s}) + \mathrm{2C}(\mathrm{s}) \rightarrow \mathrm{Si}(\mathrm{s}) + 2\mathrm{CO}(\mathrm{g}) \]

Now, check the balance:

• Silicon (Si): 1 atom on both sides.
• Oxygen (O): 2 atoms on both sides.
• Carbon (C): 2 atoms on both sides.

Final Answer