Question

which of the following is the balanced equation for the synthesis of sulfuric acid (h₂so₄)?

a so₃ + h₂o → h₂so₄
b so₃ + h₂o → h₂s + h₂so₄
c so₃ + h₂o → h₂so₄ + so₂
d so₃ + 2h₂o → 2h₂so₄

Explanation:

To check if an equation is balanced, count the number of each type of atom on both sides.

• For option a:
• Left - hand side: 1 S, \(3 + 1=4\) O, \(2\) H.
• Right - hand side: 1 S, \(4\) O, \(2\) H.
• For option b:
• Left - hand side: 1 S, \(3 + 1 = 4\) O, \(2\) H.
• Right - hand side: \(1+1 = 2\) S, \(4\) O, \(2 + 2=4\) H. Atoms are not balanced.
• For option c:
• Left - hand side: 1 S, \(3+1 = 4\) O, \(2\) H.
• Right - hand side: \(1 + 1=2\) S, \(4+2 = 6\) O, \(2\) H. Atoms are not balanced.
• For option d:
• Left - hand side: 1 S, \(3+2 = 5\) O, \(4\) H.
• Right - hand side: 2 S, \(8\) O, \(4\) H. Atoms are not balanced.

Answer:

A. \(SO_{3}+H_{2}O
ightarrow H_{2}SO_{4}\)