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Write a balanced equation for the reaction that occurs when magnesium burns in oxygen. - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question 1 - 2017

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Write a balanced equation for the reaction that occurs when magnesium burns in oxygen.

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Write a balanced equation for the reaction that occurs when magnesium burns in oxygen. - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question 1 - 2017

Step 1

Write the unbalanced equation

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Answer

The reaction of magnesium (Mg) burning in oxygen (O₂) can be initially expressed as:

Mg+O2MgO\text{Mg} + \text{O}_2 \rightarrow \text{MgO}

Step 2

Balance the equation

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Answer

To balance the equation, we need to ensure there are equal numbers of magnesium and oxygen atoms on both sides:

Balancing yields: 2Mg+O22MgO2\text{Mg} + \text{O}_2 \rightarrow 2\text{MgO}

This balanced equation shows that two moles of magnesium react with one mole of oxygen to produce two moles of magnesium oxide.

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