Write balanced equations for the formation of the following compounds from their elements. (a) Ethanol (C2H6O)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the elements involved in the formation of ethanol (C2H6O). These elements are carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O).
2. Determine the simplest form of each element in its natural state: Carbon is usually found as graphite or diamond, hydrogen as diatomic molecules (H2), and oxygen as diatomic molecules (O2).
3. Write the unbalanced equation using the molecular formulas: C + H2 + O2 → C2H6O.
4. Balance the carbon atoms first. Since there are two carbon atoms in ethanol, you would need two carbon atoms on the reactant side.
5. Balance the hydrogen and oxygen atoms, ensuring that the number of hydrogen and oxygen atoms on the reactant side equals those in the ethanol molecule, while keeping in mind the diatomic nature of hydrogen and oxygen gases.

Key Concepts

Balanced Chemical Equations

A balanced chemical equation represents a chemical reaction where the number of atoms for each element is the same on both sides of the equation. This is crucial for obeying the law of conservation of mass, which states that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction. Balancing involves adjusting coefficients in front of compounds to ensure that the total number of each type of atom is equal.

Formation Reactions

A formation reaction is a specific type of chemical reaction where a compound is formed from its constituent elements in their standard states. For example, the formation of ethanol from its elements involves combining carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in their most stable forms. Understanding formation reactions is essential for writing accurate balanced equations for compound synthesis.

Stoichiometry

Stoichiometry is the quantitative relationship between reactants and products in a chemical reaction. It allows chemists to calculate the amounts of substances consumed and produced in a reaction based on balanced equations. In the context of forming ethanol, stoichiometry helps determine the correct ratios of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen needed to produce the desired compound.