The Balanced Chemical Equation:
C3H8 + 5O2 → 3CO2 + 4H2O
Explanation of the Coefficients:
* C3H8 (Propane): The coefficient is 1 (understood, not written). This means one molecule of propane reacts.
* O2 (Oxygen): The coefficient is 5. This means five molecules of oxygen are needed for the reaction.
* CO2 (Carbon Dioxide): The coefficient is 3. This means three molecules of carbon dioxide are produced.
* H2O (Water): The coefficient is 4. This means four molecules of water are produced.
What the Coefficients Mean
These coefficients represent the stoichiometry of the reaction, meaning the relative amounts of each substance involved in the reaction. The balanced equation shows that:
* 1 mole of propane reacts with 5 moles of oxygen
* To produce 3 moles of carbon dioxide and 4 moles of water.
Why Balancing is Important
Balancing chemical equations ensures that the law of conservation of mass is followed. The total number of atoms of each element on the reactant side (left) must equal the total number of atoms of each element on the product side (right).