Question

what is the correct coefficient ratio to have the equation balanced?
mg + o₂ → mgo
2:1:2
1:1:1
2:2:2
1:2:1

Explanation:

Step1: Balance the oxygen atoms

The unbalanced equation is \(Mg + O_2
ightarrow MgO\). There are 2 oxygen atoms on the left - hand side (\(O_2\)) and 1 oxygen atom on the right - hand side (\(MgO\)). To balance the oxygen atoms, we put a coefficient of 2 in front of \(MgO\), so the equation becomes \(Mg+O_2
ightarrow 2MgO\).

Step2: Balance the magnesium atoms

Now, there are 2 magnesium atoms on the right - hand side (\(2MgO\)) and 1 magnesium atom on the left - hand side (\(Mg\)). We put a coefficient of 2 in front of \(Mg\). The balanced equation is \(2Mg + O_2=2MgO\).

The coefficients of \(Mg\), \(O_2\), and \(MgO\) are 2, 1, and 2 respectively. So the coefficient ratio is \(2:1:2\).

Answer:

2:1:2