Question

what is the missing coefficient to make a balanced equation? ?p₄ + o₂ → p₂o₃ be sure the equation is balanced before entering the coefficients. 2 4 3 1

Explanation:

Step1: Balance phosphorus atoms

Let the coefficient of $P_4$ be $x$, coefficient of $P_2O_3$ be $y$. For phosphorus atoms, we have $4x = 2y$. Simplifying gives $y = 2x$.

Step2: Balance oxygen atoms

Let the coefficient of $O_2$ be $z$. For oxygen atoms, we have $2z=3y$. Substitute $y = 2x$ into it, we get $2z = 3\times2x$, so $z = 3x$.

Step3: Choose simplest whole - number coefficients

We can choose $x = 1$, then $y=2$ and $z = 3$. The balanced equation is $1P_4+3O_2
ightarrow2P_2O_3$.

Answer:

1