Complete and balance the equation for each of the following reactions.
a. Fe(s) + H⁺(aq) →
c. Al(s)+ H⁺(aq) →

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Identify the type of reaction: This is a single displacement reaction where iron (Fe) will react with hydrogen ions (H+) to produce hydrogen gas (H2) and iron ions.

Write the unbalanced equation: Fe(s) + H+(aq) → Fe2+(aq) + H2(g).

Balance the atoms other than hydrogen and oxygen: In this case, iron is already balanced with one Fe atom on each side.

Balance the hydrogen atoms: There are 2 hydrogen atoms in H2, so you need 2 H+ ions on the reactant side. The equation becomes Fe(s) + 2H+(aq) → Fe2+(aq) + H2(g).

Check the charge balance: The charges on both sides should be equal. The reactant side has a charge of +2 (from 2H+), and the product side also has a charge of +2 (from Fe2+), so the equation is balanced.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Balancing Chemical Equations

Balancing chemical equations involves ensuring that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation. This is based on the law of conservation of mass, which states that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction. To balance an equation, coefficients are adjusted in front of the chemical formulas to achieve equal atom counts.

Oxidation-Reduction Reactions

Oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions involve the transfer of electrons between substances. In these reactions, one species is oxidized (loses electrons) while another is reduced (gains electrons). Understanding the oxidation states of the elements involved helps in identifying which species undergo oxidation and reduction, which is crucial for balancing the equation.

Acid-Base Reactions

Acid-base reactions typically involve the transfer of protons (H⁺ ions) between reactants. In the given reaction, H⁺ ions from an acid react with a metal, which can lead to the formation of a salt and hydrogen gas. Recognizing the role of acids and bases in reactions is essential for predicting products and balancing the overall equation.

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