To determine the number of atoms of oxygen in the products when 4 atoms of iron (Fe) react with 6 atoms of oxygen (O) and 3 atoms of carbon (C), we need to consider the chemical reactions that can occur.
A reasonable way to combine these reactants is through a combination that produces iron oxide and carbon dioxide. The reaction can be represented as follows:
- Iron reacts with oxygen to form iron oxide (FeO or Fe₂O₃ depending on the stoichiometry).
- Carbon could react with oxygen to form carbon dioxide (CO₂).
However, since we do not have the specific stoichiometry for complete reactions, we will analyze the initial conditions provided.
Given:
- 4 atoms of Fe
- 6 atoms of O
- 3 atoms of C
If we consider that the reaction primarily results in iron oxide and potentially some carbon dioxide, the number of oxygen atoms that end up in the products will primarily come from those 6 atoms of oxygen initially present, assuming they are fully utilized.
Thus, when investigating the options provided, it doesn't specify that any oxygen will be lost or that additional oxygen will be gained from the environment or other reactions. Instead, we will conclude that all of the initial 6 atoms of oxygen can theoretically end up in the products.
Consequently, based on the given options, the correct answer for the number of oxygen atoms in the products is 6.