What happens when we react [MATH]\text{H}_2[/MATH] with [MATH]\text{O}_2[/MATH]? What is the product, and why?

 

Thanks in advance!

 

(Sorry if this isn't in the right forum. I'm not sure if this is classified as HW Help or General Chemistry.)

a Water molecule with a left over O.

 

As to why, its really the only way for the equation to balance itself out

 

H₂ + O₂ ----> H₂O + H

Usually it is written as 2 H2 + O2 -> 2 H2O

 

So twice as much hydrogen as oxygen is consumed. The reaction also releases a considerable amount of energy, usually as heat, light, and a bang.

big314mp is right.

yeah.hhhh i agree with big314mp too..

it depends how it was reacted, H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) is also a possible product.

the products depend on the amt and type of energy povided.eg. if sufficient energy in the form of electricity is provided $h_2 0_2$ formation is highly probable.This depends on the $E_a$value for each($H_2O and $h_2 0_2$) . although once formed they exist in an equilibrium

 

sorry should be [math]$H_2O and $h_2 0_2$

[/math]

i belive H2O2 rarely happens in nature ... instead its a man engineered compound and is commonly found in contact lens cleaner . but i agree with big314mp ////

H2O2 happens enough in nature that all aerobic life has a means to decompose it. Also, some critters like the bombardier beetle actually produce it as an oxidizer.