Question

what is the missing coefficient to make a balanced equation?
be sure the equation is balanced before entering the coefficients.

Explanation:

Step1: Balance phosphorus atoms

Let the coefficient of \(P_4\) be \(x\), coefficient of \(P_2O_3\) be \(y\). For phosphorus balance: \(4x = 2y\).

Step2: Balance oxygen atoms

Let the coefficient of \(O_2\) be \(z\). For oxygen balance: \(2z=3y\).

Step3: Assume \(x = 1\)

If \(x = 1\), from \(4x = 2y\), we get \(y = 2\). Substituting \(y = 2\) into \(2z = 3y\), we have \(2z=3\times2\), so \(z = 3\).

Answer:

1