Question

balance the chemical equation using the smallest possible whole number coefficients.
if the coefficient is 1, you may leave it blank.
□ co_(g) + □ cl_2(g) → □ cocl_2(g)

Explanation:

Step1: Count C atoms on each side

Left: 1 (from CO), Right: 1 (from $\text{COCl}_2$)

Step2: Count O atoms on each side

Left: 1 (from CO), Right: 1 (from $\text{COCl}_2$)

Step3: Count Cl atoms on each side

Left: 2 (from $\text{Cl}_2$), Right: 2 (from $\text{COCl}_2$)

Step4: Verify balanced equation

All atom counts are equal on both sides, so coefficients are 1 for all species (left blank as instructed).

Answer:

(blank) $\text{CO}_{(g)} +$ (blank) $\text{Cl}_{2\ (g)}
ightarrow$ (blank) $\text{COCl}_{2\ (g)}$