Complete the exercises below. Write a balanced equation for each of the following reactions: a. Burning magnesium metal in a carbon dioxide atmosphere reduces the CO₂ to carbon. b. In photosynthesis, solar energy is used to produce glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and O₂ from carbon dioxide and water.

Balancing chemical equations is essential to ensure that the law of conservation of mass is upheld, meaning the number of atoms of each element must be the same on both sides of the equation. This involves adjusting coefficients in front of compounds to achieve equal numbers of each type of atom, reflecting the actual stoichiometry of the reaction.

Combustion reactions involve the reaction of a substance with oxygen, typically producing heat and light. In the case of magnesium burning in carbon dioxide, it serves as a reduction reaction where magnesium reduces CO₂ to carbon, showcasing the transfer of electrons and the formation of new products.

Photosynthesis is a biochemical process where plants convert light energy into chemical energy, producing glucose and oxygen from carbon dioxide and water. This process can be summarized by a balanced equation, highlighting the transformation of reactants into products and the importance of energy transfer in biological systems.