4Al + 3O2 ==> 2Al2O3
done by trial and error. You need to practice to do this.
This type reaction is a synthesis type; i.e., two materials produce a single material. Here is a web site that talks about types of reactions. http://misterguch.brinkster.net/6typesofchemicalrxn.html
Completing Equations of chemical changes: EXample: Al+02- Al2O3
How do Iidentify which type of reaction is taking lace and then balance by using coefficients and not subscripts to balance
5 answers
there is also an algebraic way to balance equations---> I'm sure if you searched using google.c0m you'd find it
Yes, there is an algebraic way of balancing equations; however, my experience is that it takes MUCH more time to do it that way, UNLESS the equation is very complicated, in which case it still takes a long time but may the onoy way to do it.
That particular equation is a synthesis reaction. A + B --> AB
To balance you must get the same number of aluminum and oxygen on each side.
Coefficients and subscripts are multiplied to find the total number of atoms on each side.
For example, Al2 --> Al3 to balance this you would have to multiple the left side by 3 because 3x2=6 atoms. On the right side you would multiple by 2. 3x2=6 atoms. (Keep in mind Al2 --> Al3 is impossible, I just used it as an example)
The balance equation in your problem is:
4Al + 3O2 --> 2Al2O3
To balance you must get the same number of aluminum and oxygen on each side.
Coefficients and subscripts are multiplied to find the total number of atoms on each side.
For example, Al2 --> Al3 to balance this you would have to multiple the left side by 3 because 3x2=6 atoms. On the right side you would multiple by 2. 3x2=6 atoms. (Keep in mind Al2 --> Al3 is impossible, I just used it as an example)
The balance equation in your problem is:
4Al + 3O2 --> 2Al2O3
yeah, I share the same experience. There is only one time I have had to use it and that was for a very complicated question (a rare occurence, unless the unit you are studying is solely on balancing in a hard course).