Question

balancing chemical equations
c₃h₈ + o₂ → co₂ + h₂o
multiple - choice question
which element(s) should we start balancing first?
o
h
c

Explanation:

When balancing chemical equations, it is a common practice to start with elements other than oxygen (\(O\)) and hydrogen (\(H\)). In the given equation \(C_3H_8 + O_2
ightarrow CO_2 + H_2O\), carbon (\(C\)) and hydrogen (\(H\)) are present in the hydrocarbon (\(C_3H_8\)) on the left - hand side. Since \(O\) is present in multiple substances (\(O_2\), \(CO_2\), \(H_2O\)) and balancing \(O\) can be more complex if done first, we start with either \(C\) or \(H\).

Answer:

C. \(C\), H. \(H\)