Which of the following is the balanced chemical equation for the reaction between lithium (Li) and chlorine gas (Cl₂) to form lithium chloride (LiCl)?

• A. Li(s) + Cl₂(g) → LiCl₂(s)
• B. 2 Li(s) + Cl₂(g) → 2 LiCl(s)
• C. Li(s) + Cl₂(g) → 2 LiCl(s)
• D. 2 Li(s) + 2 Cl₂(g) → 2 LiCl₂(s)

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the reactants and products in the chemical reaction. Here, lithium (Li) and chlorine gas (Cl₂) are the reactants, and lithium chloride (LiCl) is the product.
2. Write the unbalanced chemical equation using the chemical symbols: Li(s) + Cl₂(g) → LiCl(s).
3. Count the number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation. Initially, there is 1 Li atom and 2 Cl atoms on the reactant side, and 1 Li atom and 1 Cl atom on the product side.
4. Balance the equation by adjusting coefficients to ensure the same number of each type of atom on both sides. To balance the chlorine atoms, place a coefficient of 2 in front of LiCl: Li(s) + Cl₂(g) → 2 LiCl(s).
5. Finally, balance the lithium atoms by placing a coefficient of 2 in front of Li on the reactant side: 2 Li(s) + Cl₂(g) → 2 LiCl(s). Now, the equation is balanced with 2 Li atoms and 2 Cl atoms on both sides.