The balanced equation for the reaction of aluminum with oxygen to produce aluminum oxide is:

4 Al + 3 O₂ → 2 Al₂O₃

Here's a breakdown:

* Al: Aluminum (reactant)

* O₂: Oxygen gas (reactant)

* Al₂O₃: Aluminum oxide (product)

This equation shows that:

* 4 moles of aluminum react with 3 moles of oxygen gas

* To produce 2 moles of aluminum oxide