Balance the following equation in standard form and determine the sum of the coefficients: LiAlH4(s) + AlCl3(s) → AlH3(s) + LiCl(s).

• A. 12
• B. 8
• C. 10
• D. 14

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the elements present in the reaction: lithium (Li), aluminum (Al), hydrogen (H), and chlorine (Cl).
2. Write the unbalanced chemical equation: ${\mathrm{LiAlH}}_4\left(s\right)+{\mathrm{AlCl}}_3\left(s\right)\to {\mathrm{AlH}}_3\left(s\right)+\mathrm{LiCl}\left(s\right)$.
3. Count the number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation to identify which elements are unbalanced.
4. Adjust the coefficients of the compounds to balance the number of atoms for each element on both sides of the equation. Start by balancing the metals (Li and Al), then balance hydrogen (H), and finally chlorine (Cl).
5. Once the equation is balanced, add up all the coefficients to find the sum. Ensure that the coefficients are in the lowest possible whole number ratio.