Write a balanced equation for the reaction that occurs in each of the following cases: (c) Sodium reacts with oxygen.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the reactants: Sodium (Na) and Oxygen (O_2).
2. Determine the product: Sodium reacts with oxygen to form sodium oxide (Na_2O).
3. Write the unbalanced equation: Na + O_2 \rightarrow Na_2O.
4. Balance the equation by adjusting coefficients: Start by balancing the sodium atoms. Since there are 2 sodium atoms in Na_2O, place a coefficient of 2 in front of Na: 2Na + O_2 \rightarrow Na_2O.
5. Check the balance of oxygen atoms: There are 2 oxygen atoms on the reactant side and 1 on the product side. Place a coefficient of 2 in front of Na_2O to balance the oxygen: 4Na + O_2 \rightarrow 2Na_2O.

Key Concepts

Balancing Chemical Equations

Balancing chemical equations involves ensuring that the number of atoms for 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.

Sodium and Oxygen Reaction

When sodium (Na) reacts with oxygen (O2), it forms sodium oxide (Na2O). This reaction is an example of a combustion reaction where a metal reacts with a non-metal. Sodium is a highly reactive alkali metal, and it reacts vigorously with oxygen, often producing heat and light.

Types of Chemical Reactions

Chemical reactions can be classified into several types, including synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, and double replacement. The reaction between sodium and oxygen is a synthesis reaction, where two or more reactants combine to form a single product. Understanding these classifications helps in predicting the products and balancing the equations.