Question

Which is the properly balanced equation for the process in which iron oxide (Fe2O3) and carbon monoxide (CO) react to produce iron (Fe) and carbon dioxide (CO2) gas?

A.
Fe2O3 + CO → Fe + CO2

B.
Fe2O3 + 3CO → 2Fe + 3CO2

C.
2Fe2O3 + 3CO → 2Fe + 3CO2

D.
3Fe2O3 + CO → 3Fe + 2CO2

Answer 1

B. Fe2O3 +3CO --> 2Fe + 3CO2

Fe has 2, Fe2 ---> 2Fe
O has 6, O3 + 3O (3+3=6) ---> 3(O2)(3x2=6)
C has 3, (3C --> 3C)

none of the other equations make sense:
In A, Fe on the left has 2 while Fe on the right has 1(so you can eliminate that.)
in C, Fe on the left has 4 (2x2) while Fe on the right has 2.(eliminate this too.)
in D, Fe on the left has 6 (3x2) and Fe on the right has 3 (eliminate this)