What are formation reactions? Use methane as an example.

1 Answer
Truong-Son N.
Oct 27, 2017

Formation reactions occur from elements in their standard state. This means at #25^@ "C"# and #"1 atm"#, what do you see in real life?

To form #"CH"_4#, you'll need the graphite form of carbon solid and the gaseous form of hydrogen element:

#color(blue)("C"(gr) + 2"H"_2(g) -> "CH"_4(g))#

The other important thing is that you form #"1 mol"# of #"CH"_4#, so fractions are not uncommon. Why is it incorrect to write

#"C"(gr) + 4"H"(g) -> "CH"_4(g)#?

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