Balance the reaction KClO3 –> KCl + O2, a) how many O2 are formed?, b) what is the reaction type
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To balance the reaction:
Unbalanced Reaction:
KClO3 → KCl + O2
Step 1: Balance the atoms other than oxygen and chlorine.
- There is 1 potassium (K) atom on each side of the equation, so potassium is already balanced.
- There is 1 chlorine (Cl) atom on each side of the equation, so chlorine is balanced as well.
Step 2: Balance the oxygen atoms.
- There are 3 oxygen atoms on the left-hand side (from KClO3) and only 2 on the right-hand side (in O2).
- To balance oxygen, place a coefficient of 3/2 in front of O2:
KClO3 → KCl + (3/2)O2
Step 3: Balance the potassium and chlorine atoms with whole numbers.
- Now, the chlorine and potassium are balanced, but we need to eliminate the fraction (3/2) in front of O2.
- Multiply the entire equation by 2 to make all coefficients whole numbers:
2 KClO3 → 2 KCl + 3 O2
Now, the reaction is balanced.
Answers:
a) How many O2 molecules are formed?
- From the balanced equation, we see that 3 O2 molecules are formed for every 2 KClO3 molecules that decompose.
b) What is the reaction type?
- This is a decomposition reaction, as a single reactant (KClO3) breaks down into two products: KCl and O2. Decomposition reactions occur when a compound breaks down into simpler substances, often due to heat or pressure.
Explanation:
In this reaction, potassium chlorate (KClO3) decomposes into potassium chloride (KCl) and oxygen gas (O2). Decomposition reactions generally involve the breakdown of a single compound into two or more products. This specific reaction is often catalyzed by heat, which causes the potassium chlorate to break down. The oxygen gas produced is essential for many processes, such as combustion.
