In the balanced chemical equation for burning magnesium, \(2\mathrm{Mg}+\mathrm{O}_2\rightarrow2\mathrm{MgO}\), how many magnesium atoms are on the reactant side?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Two
In the balanced equation \(2\mathrm{Mg}+\mathrm{O}_2\rightarrow2\mathrm{MgO}\), the coefficient of \(\mathrm{Mg}\) is 2, so there are 2 magnesium atoms on the reactant side. Since \(\mathrm{O}_2\) contains 2 oxygen atoms, \(2\mathrm{MgO}\) is required on the product side; therefore, 1 magnesium atom would not balance the equation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Two
Why is this the correct answer?
In the balanced equation \(2\mathrm{Mg}+\mathrm{O}_2\rightarrow2\mathrm{MgO}\), the coefficient of \(\mathrm{Mg}\) is 2, so there are 2 magnesium atoms on the reactant side. Since \(\mathrm{O}_2\) contains 2 oxygen atoms, \(2\mathrm{MgO}\) is required on the product side; therefore, 1 magnesium atom would not balance the equation.
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.
