Question

In the reaction `2CO(g) + O_2(g) -> 2CO_2(g)`, what is the ratio of moles of oxygen used to moles of `CO_2` produced?

Answer 1

Why the ratio of dioxygen to carbon dioxide is `1:2` on the basis of `"moles, i.e. on the basis of number of particles"`.

Explanation:

You have given the stoichiometric equation, which states UNEQUIVOCALLY that 2 mole of carbon monoxide reacts with 1 mole of dioxygen gas to give 2 mole of carbon dioxide. We could also state that 1 volume of carbon monoxide, and 2 volumes of dioxygen, react to give 2 volumes of carbon dioxide.

Look at the stoichiometry of the reaction. One mole of dioxygen reacts with 2 moles of carbon monoxide to give 2 moles of carbon dioxide. Because products and reactants are conceived to hold identical temperatures, and pressure is constant, one VOLUME of dioxygen reacts with 2 VOLUMES of carbon monoxide to give 2 VOLUMES of carbon dioxide.

Answer 2

`1:2` that is `(1 mol O_2)/(2 mol CO_2)`

Explanation:

First check to see if the equation is balanced. It is so now let's find the ratio.

The ratio is the stoichiomeric coefficient of the element or compound.

Oxygen: Carbon dioxide

`O_2:2CO_2`

`1:2`