Question

For the following word equation, write it as a chemical equation, then balance it

potassium + oxygen gas----- potassium oxide

Answer 1

4K + O2 ---> 2K2O

Step-by-step explanation:

The valence of Potassium is +1

The valence of oxygen is -2

Thus, two atoms of potassium will attach with one atom of oxygen to form molecule of potassium oxide.

This can be written as

2K + O ---> K2O

However, this is not the balanced equation as oxygen exists as O2 molecule.

Thus, the balanced equation is

4K + O2 ---> 2K2O