1. The Chemical Equation:
The balanced chemical equation for burning methane (CH4) is:
CH4 + 2O2 → CO2 + 2H2O
2. The Answer:
The equation shows that two (2) molecules of oxygen (O2) are needed to react with one molecule of methane (CH4).
Explanation:
* Methane (CH4): This is the fuel source.
* Oxygen (O2): This is the oxidizer, the substance that allows the burning process to occur.
* Carbon Dioxide (CO2): This is a product of the reaction.
* Water (H2O): This is also a product of the reaction.
The numbers in front of each molecule in the equation are called coefficients. They represent the ratio of molecules involved in the reaction.
