Question

What is the correct, balanced equation for the following word equation?

In the acetylene torch, acetylene gas (C2H2) burns in oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water.



2C2H2 + 5O2 --> 4CO2 + 2H2O

2C2H2 + O2 --> 3CO2 + 2H2O

C2H2 + 4O2 --> 2CO2 + 2H2O

2C2H2 + O2 --> CO2 + H2O

Answer 1

Answer: 2C2H2 + 5O2 --> 4CO2 + 2H2O

Explanation:

Usually, acetylene gas (C2H2) burns in oxygen O2 to produce carbon dioxide CO2 and water H20

2C2H2 + 5O2 --> 4CO2 + 2H2O

Of all the options, only the above show balance in the number of reactants (C2H2 and O2) on left side and Right side.

4 atoms of Carbon on reactants side = 4 carbon atoms on products side

4 atoms of hydrogen = 4 hydrogen on products side

10 atoms of oxygen (5O2) = 10 atoms of oxygen on products side