Concept:This is a redox reaction where
CuO is reduced to
Cu and
NH3 is oxidized to
N2.
Explanation:Start with the unbalanced equation:
CuO+NH3→Cu+N2+H2O.
Balance nitrogen first: 2
NH3 gives 1
N2.
Balance hydrogen: 2
NH3 gives 6 H atoms, so 3
H2O are needed on the product side.
Balance oxygen: 3
H2O contain 3 O atoms, so 3
CuO are needed on the reactant side.
Now balance copper: 3
CuO gives 3
Cu.
Check all atoms:
Reactants: 3 Cu, 3 O, 2 N, 6 H.
Products: 3 Cu, 3 O, 2 N, 6 H.
The equation is balanced:
3CuO+2NH3→3Cu+N2+3H2O.Answer:Option C:
3CuO+2NH3→3Cu+N2+3H2O.