Chapter 13, Problem 1RCC

To determine

To find:

The purpose of coefficients in a chemical equation.

Answer to Problem 1RCC

Solution:

The purpose of coefficients in a chemical reaction is to give the number of molecules and atoms that are taking part in a chemical reaction.

Explanation of Solution

The coefficient in a chemical reaction plays an important role. It gives the number of molecules and atoms that take part in chemical reaction. It shows the number of molecules reacting in the chemical reaction. Without coefficients, only the reactants and products can be identified.

For example in the reaction, $2{\text{H}}_2+{\text{O}}_2\to 2{\text{H}}_2\text{O}$, two molecules of hydrogen react with one molecule of oxygen and produce two molecules of water.