What will be the complete equation for an oxide of a metal?

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SUMMARY

The complete equation for the formation of a metal oxide, represented as MO, involves the reaction of a metal (M) with diatomic oxygen (O2). The balanced equation can be expressed as 2M + O2 = 2MO, where the stoichiometry depends on the charge of the metal ion. Metals typically do not exist as diatomic molecules; instead, they are represented as individual atoms in the reaction. Understanding the periodic table and the properties of different metal groups is essential for determining the correct stoichiometry and balancing the equation.

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  • Understanding of chemical bonding, including ionic and covalent bonds
  • Familiarity with the periodic table and metal properties
  • Knowledge of balancing chemical equations
  • Concept of formula units versus molecules in chemistry
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  • Study the periodic table to understand metal ion charges and their properties
  • Learn about ionic bonding and how it applies to metal oxides
  • Practice balancing chemical equations with various metal and non-metal combinations
  • Explore the concept of formula units in ionic compounds versus molecular compounds
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Chemistry students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the formation and balancing of metal oxides in chemical reactions.

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Homework Statement


What will be the complete equation if an oxide of a metal is MO?

3. The Attempt at a Solution

M + O2 = MO or M2 + O2 = MO
As far as I know, non-metals come as molecules such as O2, N2 etc But I am confused about metals. in the reactant, do metals react as a molecule or as an atom-like above?
 
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Find out how many atoms of each element make a molecule of that element. Then you can write the left hand side of the equation.

The right hand side contains MO.

Then make adjustments to ensure the equation balances.
 
CWatters said:
Find out how many atoms of each element make a molecule of that element. Then you can write the left hand side of the equation.

The right hand side contains MO.

Then make adjustments to ensure the equation balances.
That's the problem. As I know 2 atoms of 'O' make a molecule of O2 But how to calculate the atoms of M that makes a molecule?
 
How many oxygens in the metal oxide depends on the metal. What is the charge of the metal ion? Know that or find that; and then balance with the needed moles of oxygen. The charges of plus and minus must balance for the metal oxide formula unit.
 
Indranil said:
That's the problem. As I know 2 atoms of 'O' make a molecule of O2 But how to calculate the atoms of M that makes a molecule?
The periodic table breaks down into groups that in general behave similarly. You will have to read up on the different groups, their properties and the way bonding works.

Most metals don't form molecules due to the way they share electrons.

Have you covered the different types of bonds yet?
 
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CWatters said:
The periodic table breaks down into groups that in general behave similarly. You will have to read up on the different groups, their properties and the way bonding works.

Most metals don't form molecules due to the way they share electrons.
Note the idea of "formula units" instead of "molecules".
 
As far as I know, metals do not form diatomic bonds. You would just put M(s) + O2 -> ____
 

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