1. Write the balanced chemical equation:
C₃H₈ (g) + 5O₂ (g) → 3CO₂ (g) + 4H₂O (g)
2. Mole ratio:
The balanced equation shows that 1 mole of propane (C₃H₈) reacts with 5 moles of oxygen (O₂).
3. Calculate the moles of oxygen:
To find the moles of oxygen needed for a specific amount of propane, you would use the following:
* Moles of oxygen = (Moles of propane) x (5 moles O₂ / 1 mole C₃H₈)
Example:
Let's say you have 2 moles of propane. The moles of oxygen needed would be:
* Moles of oxygen = (2 moles C₃H₈) x (5 moles O₂ / 1 mole C₃H₈) = 10 moles O₂