Question

fill out the table below based on the following chemical equation: rb + s₈ → __rb₂s
total # before (reactants) elements total # after (reactants)
rb
s
the correct coefficients for the equation is: rb + s₈ → __rb₂s

Explanation:

Step1: Balance sulfur atoms

Let the coefficient of $S_8$ be $x$ and the coefficient of $Rb_2S$ be $y$. For sulfur, we have $8x=y$. To get whole - number coefficients, we can start with $x = 1$, then $y=8$.

Step2: Balance rubidium atoms

If the coefficient of $Rb_2S$ is $8$, then the number of rubidium atoms in the product is $16$. So the coefficient of $Rb$ in the reactant must be $16$.

Answer:

Total # Before (reactants)	Elements	Total # After (Products)
8	S	8

The correct coefficients for the equation is: 16 $Rb$+ 1 $S_8$→ 8 $Rb_2S$