Question

what is the correct coefficient ratio to have the equation balanced? (nh₄)₂co₃ → co₂ + nh₃ + h₂o 1:1:2:1 1:2:1:2 2:2:1:2 1:1:1:1

Explanation:

Step1: Count atoms on left side

For \((NH_4)_2CO_3\): \(2\) \(N\) atoms (\(2\times1\) from \(NH_4\)), \(8\) \(H\) atoms (\(2\times4\) from \(NH_4\)), \(1\) \(C\) atom, \(3\) \(O\) atoms.

Step2: Balance \(N\) atoms

On right side, \(NH_3\) has \(N\). To balance \(N\) (left has \(2\) \(N\)), put coefficient \(2\) in front of \(NH_3\). Now equation is \((NH_4)_2CO_3
ightarrow CO_2 + 2NH_3+H_2O\).

Step3: Balance \(H\) atoms

Left has \(8\) \(H\). Right: \(2NH_3\) has \(6\) \(H\), \(H_2O\) has \(2\) \(H\) (if coefficient of \(H_2O\) is \(1\)). Total right \(H = 6 + 2=8\).

Step4: Check \(C\) and \(O\)

\(C\): left \(1\), right \(1\) (from \(CO_2\)). \(O\): left \(3\), right \(2\) (from \(CO_2\)) \(+1\) (from \(H_2O\)) \(=3\).
Balanced equation: \((NH_4)_2CO_3
ightarrow CO_2 + 2NH_3+H_2O\). Coefficient ratio \(1:1:2:1\) (for \((NH_4)_2CO_3:CO_2:NH_3:H_2O\)).

Answer:

1:1:2:1