Here's how to balance the equation for the reaction between sodium (Na) and fluorine (F₂) to produce sodium fluoride (NaF):

Unbalanced Equation:

Na + F₂ → NaF

Balanced Equation:

2Na + F₂ → 2NaF

Explanation:

1. Identify the elements and their states:

- Sodium (Na) is a solid metal.

- Fluorine (F₂) is a diatomic gas.

- Sodium fluoride (NaF) is a solid ionic compound.

2. Count the atoms on each side:

- Reactants: 1 Na atom, 2 F atoms

- Products: 1 Na atom, 1 F atom

3. Balance the equation by adjusting coefficients:

- To balance the fluorine atoms, add a coefficient of 2 in front of NaF on the product side:

Na + F₂ → 2NaF

- Now, the sodium atoms are unbalanced. Add a coefficient of 2 in front of Na on the reactant side:

2Na + F₂ → 2NaF

Now the equation is balanced:

* 2 Na atoms on both sides

* 2 F atoms on both sides