Question

balance the following equation:

_ch₄ + _o₂ → _co₂ + _h₂o

when the equation is properly balanced, the correct coefficients are, respectively

Explanation:

Step1: Balance carbon atoms

There is 1 carbon atom in \(CH_4\) and 1 carbon atom in \(CO_2\). So, the coefficient of \(CH_4\) and \(CO_2\) can be 1 for now.

Step2: Balance hydrogen atoms

There are 4 hydrogen atoms in \(CH_4\) and 2 hydrogen atoms in \(H_2O\). To balance hydrogen, set the coefficient of \(H_2O\) as 2. Now we have \(CH_4+O_2
ightarrow CO_2 + 2H_2O\).

Step3: Balance oxygen atoms

On the right - hand side, there are \(2 + 2=4\) oxygen atoms (2 from \(CO_2\) and 2 from \(2H_2O\)). So, set the coefficient of \(O_2\) as 2.

Answer:

1, 2, 1, 2