Final answer:
The correct chemical equation, given the color-coded atoms for carbon (CO), nitrogen (NO), and oxygen, and ensuring the conservation of mass through stoichiometry, is 'd. 2CO + 2NO → 2CO2 + N2'.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question involves identifying the correct chemical equation that represents a reaction involving carbon (grey), nitrogen (blue), and oxygen (red) atoms. Based on the color coding provided, we need to look for a reaction formula that includes carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen monoxide (NO), and the products formed from this reaction combination.
To balance a chemical equation, one must ensure the same number of each type of atom appears on both sides of the equation. This is a fundamental concept in stoichiometry, ensuring mass conservation during a chemical reaction.
Considering the color coding and the need to balance the equation, the correct answer is d. 2CO + 2NO → 2CO2 + N2.
This reaction equation ensures that the number of carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen atoms is conserved on both sides, abiding by the law of conservation of mass. It depicts the reaction between carbon monoxide and nitrogen monoxide to produce carbon dioxide and nitrogen gas.