Skip to main content
Ch.3 - Chemical Reactions and Reaction Stoichiometry
Chapter 3, Problem 13

Balance the following equations:
(a) CaS(s) + H2O(l) → Ca(HS2)2(aq) + Ca(OH)2(aq)
(b) NH3(g) + O2(g) → NO(g) + H2O(g)
(c) FeCl3(s) + Na2CO3(aq) → Fe2(CO3)3(s) + NaCl(aq)
(d) FeS2(s) + O2(g) → Fe2O3(s) + SO2(g)

Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the number of each type of atom on both sides of the equation. For NH₃ + O₂ → NO + H₂O, count N, H, and O atoms.
Start by balancing the nitrogen (N) atoms. There is 1 N atom in NH₃ and 1 N atom in NO. They are already balanced.
Next, balance the hydrogen (H) atoms. There are 3 H atoms in NH₃ and 2 H atoms in H₂O. To balance, adjust the coefficients of NH₃ and H₂O.
Now, balance the oxygen (O) atoms. Count the O atoms in O₂, NO, and H₂O. Adjust the coefficients to ensure the same number of O atoms on both sides.
Check all atoms again to ensure they are balanced. Adjust coefficients as necessary to achieve a balanced equation.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Video duration:
59s
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Balancing Chemical Equations

Balancing chemical equations involves ensuring that the number of atoms for 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. Coefficients are used to adjust the quantities of reactants and products to achieve balance.
Recommended video:
Guided course
01:32
Balancing Chemical Equations

Stoichiometry

Stoichiometry is the quantitative relationship between the amounts of reactants and products in a chemical reaction. It allows chemists to predict how much of each substance is needed or produced. Understanding stoichiometry is essential for balancing equations, as it provides the ratios in which substances react and form products.
Recommended video:
Guided course
01:16
Stoichiometry Concept

Types of Chemical Reactions

Chemical reactions can be classified into several types, including synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, and combustion. Recognizing the type of reaction helps in predicting the products and understanding the changes occurring during the reaction. In the given equation, the reaction involves the combustion of ammonia, which produces nitrogen monoxide and water.
Recommended video:
Guided course
02:25
Common Types of Alkane Reactions