QuestionJune 20, 2025

How many oxygen molecules are needed to finish balancing the following equation? C_(4)H_(10)O+ldots O_(2)arrow 5H_(2)O+4CO_(2) 5 6 8 3 7

How many oxygen molecules are needed to finish balancing the following equation? C_(4)H_(10)O+ldots O_(2)arrow 5H_(2)O+4CO_(2) 5 6 8 3 7
How many oxygen molecules are needed to finish balancing the following
equation?
C_(4)H_(10)O+ldots O_(2)arrow 5H_(2)O+4CO_(2)
5
6
8
3
7

Solution
3.8(219 votes)

Answer

9 Explanation 1. Count Atoms on Product Side There are 10 H atoms in 5H_2O and 8 O atoms in 4CO_2. Total O atoms needed = 18. 2. Count Oxygen Atoms from Reactants C_4H_{10}O provides 1 O atom. Remaining O atoms needed = 17. 3. Calculate Required O_2 Molecules Each O_2 molecule provides 2 O atoms. **Number of O_2 molecules** = \frac{17}{2} = 8.5. Since we need whole molecules, round up to 9.

Explanation

1. Count Atoms on Product Side<br /> There are 10 H atoms in $5H_2O$ and 8 O atoms in $4CO_2$. Total O atoms needed = 18.<br /><br />2. Count Oxygen Atoms from Reactants<br /> $C_4H_{10}O$ provides 1 O atom. Remaining O atoms needed = 17.<br /><br />3. Calculate Required $O_2$ Molecules<br /> Each $O_2$ molecule provides 2 O atoms. **Number of $O_2$ molecules** = $\frac{17}{2} = 8.5$. Since we need whole molecules, round up to 9.
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