The balanced combustion reaction for liquid ethanol (C₂H₅OH) is:

C₂H₅OH(l) + 3O₂(g) → 2CO₂(g) + 3H₂O(g)

Here's a breakdown:

* C₂H₅OH(l): Liquid ethanol, the fuel being burned.

* O₂(g): Oxygen gas, the oxidizer.

* CO₂(g): Carbon dioxide gas, a product of combustion.

* H₂O(g): Water vapor, another product of combustion.

Explanation:

This reaction demonstrates the complete combustion of ethanol, meaning it reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water. The coefficients in the balanced equation ensure that the number of atoms of each element on the reactant side (left) equals the number on the product side (right). This adheres to the law of conservation of mass.

Note: This reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat energy.