When table sugar (sucrose, C12H22O11) is heated, it decomposes to form C and H2O.Write a balanced equation for the process.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the chemical formula for sucrose, which is \( \text{C}_{12}\text{H}_{22}\text{O}_{11} \).
2. Recognize that sucrose decomposes into carbon (C) and water (H2O).
3. Write the unbalanced chemical equation: \( \text{C}_{12}\text{H}_{22}\text{O}_{11} \rightarrow \text{C} + \text{H}_2\text{O} \).
4. Balance the carbon atoms by ensuring there are 12 carbon atoms on both sides of the equation.
5. Balance the hydrogen and oxygen atoms by adjusting the coefficients of \( \text{H}_2\text{O} \) to ensure there are 22 hydrogen atoms and 11 oxygen atoms on both sides.

Key Concepts

Decomposition Reaction

A decomposition reaction is a type of chemical reaction where a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler products. In the case of sucrose, when heated, it decomposes into carbon (C) and water (H2O). Understanding this concept is crucial for writing the balanced equation, as it highlights the transformation of one substance into multiple products.

Balancing Chemical Equations

Balancing chemical equations involves ensuring that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation. This is based on the law of conservation of mass, which states that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction. For the decomposition of sucrose, it is essential to adjust coefficients to achieve balance between the reactants and products.

Stoichiometry

Stoichiometry is the calculation of reactants and products in chemical reactions based on their molar ratios. It allows chemists to predict the amounts of substances consumed and produced in a reaction. In the context of the sucrose decomposition, stoichiometry helps in determining the correct proportions of carbon and water formed from the decomposition process, which is necessary for writing the balanced equation.