Write a balanced equation for the combustion of liquid penetrate C5H12, in which it combines with gaseous oxygen to form gaseous carbon dioxide and gaseous water?

1 Answer
Jun 16, 2017

C_5H_12 + 8 O_2 rarr 5CO_2 + 6 H_2O

Explanation:

your equation works. However, it is better to use the smallest possible coefficients. Divide your by 2. It still works.

Start by using the 5 carbons in the hydrocarbon to form 5 carbon dioxide. Then use the 12 hydrogens to form 6 waters. Then count up the oxygen atoms needed.

5 xx O_2 = 10 O
6 xx O_1 = 6 O
= 16 O
There must be 16 oxygens on the left or reactants to balance the equation. So

8 xx O_2 = 16 O

so

1 xx C_5H_12 + 8 xx O_2 = 5 xx CO_2 + 6 xx H_2O