In the balanced equation for burning magnesium, \(2\mathrm{Mg}+\mathrm{O}_2\rightarrow2\mathrm{MgO}\), how many oxygen atoms are present on the product side?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Two
The product side contains \(2\mathrm{MgO}\). Each formula unit of \(\mathrm{MgO}\) has 1 oxygen atom, and the coefficient 2 means there are 2 such units. Thus, the total number of oxygen atoms is \(2\times1=2\). Do not confuse this with the subscript 2 in \(\mathrm{O}_2\), which shows the number of atoms in one oxygen molecule on the reactant side.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Two
Why is this the correct answer?
The product side contains \(2\mathrm{MgO}\). Each formula unit of \(\mathrm{MgO}\) has 1 oxygen atom, and the coefficient 2 means there are 2 such units. Thus, the total number of oxygen atoms is \(2\times1=2\). Do not confuse this with the subscript 2 in \(\mathrm{O}_2\), which shows the number of atoms in one oxygen molecule on the reactant side.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Chemical Reactions and Equations.
