Write the balanced equation for the reaction of hydrogen gas with bromine gas.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the reactants: hydrogen gas (H₂) and bromine gas (Br₂).
2. Determine the product of the reaction: hydrogen bromide (HBr).
3. Write the unbalanced chemical equation: H₂ + Br₂ → HBr.
4. Balance the equation by ensuring the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides. Start by balancing the bromine atoms.
5. Since there are two bromine atoms in Br₂, place a coefficient of 2 in front of HBr to balance the bromine atoms: H₂ + Br₂ → 2 HBr.

Key Concepts

Chemical Reactions

A chemical reaction involves the transformation of reactants into products through the breaking and forming of chemical bonds. In this case, hydrogen gas (H₂) and bromine gas (Br₂) react to form hydrogen bromide (HBr). Understanding the nature of reactants and products is essential for writing balanced equations.

Balancing Chemical Equations

Balancing a chemical equation ensures that the number of atoms for each element is the same on both sides of the equation, adhering to the law of conservation of mass. This process often involves adjusting coefficients in front of the chemical formulas to achieve balance, which is crucial for accurately representing the reaction.

Diatomic Molecules

Certain elements, including hydrogen and bromine, naturally exist as diatomic molecules, meaning they form pairs of atoms (H₂ and Br₂) in their elemental state. Recognizing these diatomic molecules is important when writing chemical equations, as it affects the stoichiometry and the coefficients used in the balanced equation.