'balanceable equations' (beginning chem)

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The discussion revolves around balancing the chemical equation C3H5(NO3)3 → CO2 + N2 + H2O + O2. The original poster is confused about how to create an atom inventory due to the different elements on each side, but it is clarified that the same elements (C, H, N, O) are present on both sides. Participants suggest that the reaction is a decomposition reaction rather than a single replacement. They emphasize that coefficients can be adjusted individually for each product rather than multiplying entire sides. The conversation aims to guide the original poster in balancing the equation correctly.
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Homework Statement


I've been balancing equations but this one has me really confused please help.
C3H5(NO3)3----> CO2 +N2 + H2O + O2


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


So I know that it is a single replacement reaction, (well I think so) but I don't know how to make the atom inventory because they aren't the same elements on both sides...so if you could please help me with that.
Then I can attempt to find the right coefficients on my own. :biggrin:
 
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ncmm16 said:
they aren't the same elements on both sides...so if you could please help me with that.

Erm, they are the same on both sides. You have C, H, N, and O on the left, and C, H, N, and O on the right.

Remember you can don't need to multiply entire sides by a number, you can just multiply each product individually, so you can have 3N2 on the right but 6 CO2 for example.
 
I would say it is decomposition.

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