Balance the following equations. (c) The burning of rocket fuel: C₂H₈N₂ + N₂O₄ --> N₂ + CO₂ + H₂O

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation. In the reactants, we have 2 Carbon (C), 8 Hydrogen (H), 4 Nitrogen (N), and 4 Oxygen (O) atoms. In the products, we have 2 Nitrogen (N), 1 Carbon (C), 2 Oxygen (O), and 2 Hydrogen (H) atoms.
2. Step 2: Start balancing the equation by adjusting the coefficients of the compounds. Begin with the element that appears in the least number of compounds. In this case, start with Carbon (C). To balance the Carbon atoms, place a coefficient of 2 in front of CO₂ on the product side.
3. Step 3: Next, balance the Hydrogen atoms. To do this, place a coefficient of 4 in front of H₂O on the product side.
4. Step 4: Now, balance the Nitrogen atoms. To do this, place a coefficient of 3 in front of N₂ on the product side.
5. Step 5: Finally, balance the Oxygen atoms. To do this, place a coefficient of 5 in front of N₂O₄ on the reactant side. Now, the equation should be balanced with 2 Carbon (C), 8 Hydrogen (H), 10 Nitrogen (N), and 10 Oxygen (O) atoms on both sides of the equation.

Key Concepts

Stoichiometry

Stoichiometry is the branch of chemistry that deals with the quantitative relationships between the reactants and products in a chemical reaction. It involves using balanced chemical equations to determine the amounts of substances consumed and produced. Understanding stoichiometry is essential for balancing equations, as it ensures that the law of conservation of mass is upheld.

Balancing Chemical Equations

Balancing chemical equations involves adjusting the coefficients of reactants and products to ensure that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation. This process is crucial because it reflects the conservation of mass, indicating that matter is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction. Techniques such as the inspection method or algebraic methods can be used to achieve balance.

Combustion Reactions

Combustion reactions are a type of chemical reaction where a substance (usually a hydrocarbon) reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water, releasing energy in the form of heat and light. In the context of the given equation, understanding the nature of combustion is important for identifying the products formed and the stoichiometric relationships involved in the reaction.