In the reaction 2H_2 + O_2 ightarrow 2H_2O, what is the total number of molecules reacting when 2 molecules of H_2 react with 1 molecule of O_2?

• A. 4 molecules
• B. 3 molecules
• C. 1 molecule
• D. 2 molecules

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the balanced chemical equation: \$2H_2 + O_2 \rightarrow 2H_2O$.
2. Understand the mole ratio from the balanced equation: 2 molecules of \(H_2\) react with 1 molecule of \(O_2\).
3. Given that 2 molecules of \(H_2\) react with 1 molecule of \(O_2\), add these quantities to find the total number of molecules reacting.
4. Calculate the total molecules reacting as \$2 + 1$ molecules.
5. Conclude that the total number of molecules reacting is the sum of the individual molecules of \(H_2\) and \(O_2\) involved in the reaction.