Question

Balance the reaction $F{e_2}{O_3} + CO \to Fe + C{O_2}$

Answer 1

To balance a chemical equation, we have to make sure the number of atoms of each element on the reactant side is equal to the number of atoms of each element on the product side. In order to make both sides equal, we need to multiply the number of atoms in each element until both sides become equal.

Complete answer:
Balancing chemical equations involves the addition of stoichiometric coefficients to the products and reactants. It is important because a chemical equation should obey the law of conservation of mass and the law of constant proportions. First, count the total number of atoms of each element on both reactant side and the product side.
The given equation is
$F{e_2}{O_3} + CO \to Fe + C{O_2}$
There are two iron atoms on the reactant side. So, add coefficient $2$ before iron on the product side. Then the reaction will be as follows:
$F{e_2}{O_3} + CO \to 2Fe + C{O_2}$
There are four oxygen atoms on the reactant side. So, add a coefficient $2$ before carbon dioxide on the product side. Then the reaction will be as follows:
$F{e_2}{O_3} + CO \to 2Fe + 2C{O_2}$
But, now the carbon atoms on the product side and reactant side are not equal. So, add coefficient $3$ before carbon monoxide on the reactant side and also add coefficient $3$ before carbon dioxide on the reactant side. Then the reaction will be as follows:
$F{e_2}{O_3} + 3CO \to 2Fe + 3C{O_2}$
Therefore, the balanced chemical equation is $F{e_2}{O_3} + 3CO \to 2Fe + 3C{O_2}$.

Note:
While balancing chemical equations, we have to first balance atoms other than hydrogen and oxygen. And remember to count the number of hydrogen atoms and oxygen atoms on the reactant side and product side because while balancing other atoms, the number of these atoms will change.