NaOH + H2SO4 → Na2SO4 + H2O Balance the chemical equations.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Balanced Chemical Equation:
2NaOH+H2SO4→Na2SO4+2H2O2NaOH + H_2SO_4 \rightarrow Na_2SO_4 + 2H_2O2NaOH+H2SO4→Na2SO4+2H2O
Explanation
Balancing chemical equations is an important step in understanding chemical reactions. It ensures that the number of atoms for each element is the same on both sides of the equation, following the law of conservation of mass. This law states that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction.
In the given equation, sodium hydroxide (NaOH), a strong base, reacts with sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), a strong acid. This is an example of a neutralization reaction, where an acid and a base produce a salt and water.
First, look at the unbalanced equation:
NaOH + H₂SO₄ → Na₂SO₄ + H₂O
Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) contains two hydrogen ions (H⁺) and one sulfate ion (SO₄²⁻). Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) contains one sodium ion (Na⁺) and one hydroxide ion (OH⁻). To neutralize all the hydrogen ions in one molecule of sulfuric acid, two hydroxide ions are needed. That means two NaOH molecules must react with one H₂SO₄ molecule.
Now examine the products. The sulfate ion combines with two sodium ions to form sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄). Also, two hydrogen ions combine with two hydroxide ions to form two water (H₂O) molecules.
So, to balance the equation, place a coefficient of 2 in front of NaOH and H₂O:
2NaOH + H₂SO₄ → Na₂SO₄ + 2H₂O
Now the equation is balanced:
- Sodium (Na): 2 atoms on each side
- Oxygen (O): 6 atoms on each side
- Hydrogen (H): 4 atoms on each side
- Sulfur (S): 1 atom on each side
This balanced equation reflects the correct stoichiometry of the neutralization reaction, ensuring all atoms are accounted for.
