Write a balanced equation for each of the following reactions:


a. Diborane reacts with water to form boric acid and molecular hydrogen.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Write down the unbalanced chemical equation. Diborane (B2H6) reacts with water (H2O) to form boric acid (H3BO3) and molecular hydrogen (H2). So, the unbalanced equation is: B2H6 + H2O -> H3BO3 + H2.
2. Step 2: Balance the equation for the number of boron atoms first. There are 2 boron atoms on the left side and only 1 on the right side. So, we put a coefficient of 2 in front of H3BO3 on the right side: B2H6 + H2O -> 2H3BO3 + H2.
3. Step 3: Next, balance the equation for the number of hydrogen atoms. There are 6 hydrogen atoms on the left side and 8 on the right side (6 from 2H3BO3 and 2 from H2). So, we put a coefficient of 4 in front of H2O on the left side: B2H6 + 4H2O -> 2H3BO3 + H2.
4. Step 4: Finally, balance the equation for the number of hydrogen atoms again. Now, there are 14 hydrogen atoms on the left side (6 from B2H6 and 8 from 4H2O) and 8 on the right side. So, we put a coefficient of 3 in front of H2 on the right side: B2H6 + 4H2O -> 2H3BO3 + 3H2.
5. Step 5: Check the equation to make sure it is balanced. There should be the same number of each type of atom on both sides of the equation. In this case, there are 2 boron atoms, 14 hydrogen atoms, and 4 oxygen atoms on both sides, so the equation is balanced.

Key Concepts

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.

Diborane (B2H6) and Its Reactivity

Diborane (B2H6) is a compound consisting of boron and hydrogen, known for its unique bonding and reactivity. It reacts with water in a hydrolysis reaction, producing boric acid (H3BO3) and hydrogen gas (H2). Understanding the structure and reactivity of diborane is crucial for predicting the products of its reactions.

Products of Hydrolysis Reactions

In hydrolysis reactions, a compound reacts with water, leading to the formation of new products. In the case of diborane reacting with water, the products are boric acid and hydrogen gas. Recognizing the typical products of hydrolysis helps in writing balanced equations and understanding the nature of the reaction.