Find Missing Coefficients: Al2SO4 + KOH --> AlOH3 + K2SO4

In summary, the conversation discusses the importance of balancing chemical equations and how to determine the missing coefficients in an equation. The balanced equation for the reaction between Al2SO4 and KOH is provided as an example. It is necessary to balance chemical equations in order to accurately represent the conservation of matter and ensure that all atoms are accounted for. Coefficients are used to balance the number of atoms on both sides of the equation and represent the relative amounts of each substance. Another example of a chemical equation that requires balancing is also provided.
  • #1
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What are the missing coefficients for the equation below?

Al2(SO4)3 + KOH ---> Al(OH)3 + K2SO4



a.) 1,6,2,3
b.) 2,12,4,6
c.) 1,3,2,3
d.) 4,6,2,3


I think my problem is whether or not to keep the SO4 together, or break it apart to sulfur and oxygen?
 
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  • #2
answer is A. i figured it out.
 
  • #3
For counting purposes, keep the OH and SO4 together. Then look at the coefficients of the metal ions to help you balance the equation.
 

1. What is the overall balanced equation for the reaction?

The balanced equation for the reaction between Al2SO4 and KOH is:
2Al2SO4 + 6KOH --> 2Al(OH)3 + 3K2SO4

2. How do I determine the missing coefficients?

To determine the missing coefficients, you need to follow the Law of Conservation of Mass. This means that the number of atoms of each element on the reactant side must be equal to the number of atoms of each element on the product side. Start by counting the number of atoms of each element on both sides and then adjust the coefficients until they are balanced.

3. Why is it important to balance chemical equations?

It is important to balance chemical equations because they represent the conservation of matter. In other words, the total number of each element on the reactant side must be equal to the total number of the same element on the product side. This ensures that all atoms are accounted for and that the reaction follows the Law of Conservation of Mass.

4. What is the purpose of using coefficients in a chemical equation?

Coefficients are used in a chemical equation to balance the number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation. They also represent the relative amounts of each substance involved in the reaction. Without coefficients, chemical equations would not accurately represent the reaction.

5. Can you provide an example of another chemical equation that requires balancing?

Another example of a chemical equation that requires balancing is:
Fe + HCl --> FeCl3 + H2.
The balanced equation for this reaction is:
2Fe + 6HCl --> 2FeCl3 + 3H2.

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