The balanced chemical equation for the combustion of styrene (C₈H₈) in air is:

C₈H₈ + 10O₂ → 8CO₂ + 4H₂O

Here's a breakdown of the equation:

* C₈H₈: Styrene, the hydrocarbon being combusted.

* O₂: Oxygen from the air, the reactant that allows combustion to occur.

* CO₂: Carbon dioxide, the primary product of combustion.

* H₂O: Water, another product of combustion.

Explanation:

* Balancing the equation: The equation is balanced to ensure the same number of atoms of each element on both sides. This follows the law of conservation of mass.

* Combustion: This is a chemical process that involves a rapid reaction between a substance with an oxidant, usually oxygen, to produce heat and light.

Important Note: Combustion reactions also produce other products like soot and carbon monoxide, but these are not included in the simplified equation.