The balanced equation is [tex]2C_{8} H_{18} + 25O_{2} ---> 16CO_{2} + 18H_{2} O[/tex]
Explanation:
We begin by balancing the C and the H atoms first,
[tex]C_{8} H_{18} + O_{2} ---> 8CO_{2} + 9H_{2} O[/tex]
Now, counting the number of O atoms on either side;
reactant side ---> 2
product side ----> 25
So,[tex]C_{8} H_{18} + \frac{25}{2} O_{2} ---> 8CO_{2} + 9H_{2} O[/tex]
⇒ [tex]2C_{8} H_{18} + 25O_{2} ---> 16CO_{2} + 18H_{2} O[/tex]