Question

Write out the balanced equation for the reaction that occurs when Mg and Fe(NO3)3 react together. You do not need to make your subscripts smaller; just write them out as regular numbers. For example: Fe(NO3)3.

I don't know where to start :/

Answer 1

First of all, an equation is balanced when the total number of atoms is the same for each element on both sides of the equation.
Onto the reaction...
Take note that group 1 and 2 elements are generally the most reactive and if are to react with a compound with a metal other than the aforementioned group, then it is to expect a replacement reaction, where the group 1 or 2 metal substitutes the one in the compound. Hence the reaction of\[3Mg+2Fe(NO _{3})_{3}\rightarrow 3Mg(NO _{3})_{2} +2Fe \]

Answer 2

@Hoslos that's not the answer though, is it? Cause I don't understand why you would give the Mg a 3 coefficient when in the problem it's just 1 or give the Fe(NO3)3 a 2 coefficient? and I don't understand how you get 3Mg(NO3)2+2Fe

Answer 3

If you multiply those coefficients with the atoms, you will see each element has the same total number of atoms on both sides of the equation.

Answer 4

wouldn't 3Mg+2Fe(NO3)3→3Mg(NO3)2+2Fe be 29 and 26 though? unless im counting it completely wrong

Answer 5

No. Count the total for each element separately.

Answer 6

3Mg + 2Fe + 18O + 6N = 29
3Mg + 2Fe + 18O + 6N = 29
oohhh okay, I was counting them wrong :/

Answer 7

Good. You got it.

Answer 8

@Hoslos thanks for helping c:

Answer 9

You are more than welcome @desuoverlord.