Question

select the correct answer. the image shows the combustion of methane. which equation represents this chemical reaction? a. ch₄ + o₂ → co₂ + h₂o b. 2ch₄ + 2o₂ → co₂ + 2h₂o c. ch₄ + 2o₂ → 2co₂ + h₂o d. ch₄ + o₂ → 2co₂ + 2h₂o e. ch₄ + 2o₂ → co₂ + 2h₂o

Explanation:

Step1: Balance C

CH₄ has 1 C; CO₂ has 1 C. Balanced.

Step2: Balance H

CH₄ has 4 H; need 2 H₂O (4 H). Now H balanced.

Step3: Balance O

CO₂ (2 O) + 2H₂O (2 O) = 4 O. Need 2 O₂ (4 O). Balanced equation: CH₄ + 2O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O. Matches option E.

Answer:

E. CH₄ + 2O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O