Why does 2H2 plus O2 equal 2H2O If H2 has two atoms and O2 has four atoms shouldn't it all equal 2H4O?

Answer 1

Hydrogen has a valence of 1, meaning each hydrogen atom must form one chemical bond to become stable. Oxygen has a valence of 2. So it is fairly easy for two hydrogen atoms to bond with one oxygen atom.

Answer 2

The primary reason lies with the oxidation states for the two elements. Much of the hydrogen (H) and oxygen (O) in the atmosphere already exists as water (H2O) in the form of water vapour. Much of the oxygen in the atmosphere and most of the hydrogen is already covalently bound to other elements. In any event, the activation energy needed to initiate the reaction between diatomic oxygen and elemental hydrogen is greater than that found in the ambient atmosphere. However, at times, such as during a lightening strike, there is sufficient energy and water molecules can be formed (and torn apart).

Answer 3

No - because your formula is... 2H2+O2 = 2H20

There are a total of 4 Hydrogen atoms and 2 Oxygen atoms in the left side of the equation - Therefore - there must be the same number of atoms on the right. The initial number 2 to the left of the H symbol only applies to the Hydrogen atom(s). The equation is essentially saying you start with 4 atoms of Hydrogen and 2 atoms of Oxygen - therefore, the product is 2 atoms of water (H2O)

Answer 4

bcuz in chemistry there is a formula called empirical formula which shows the ratio of atoms in a molecule as u can see the ratio of h:o is2:1 thus for perference h4o2 is written as 2h2o

Answer 5

Because it consists of 2 hydrogen atoms and 1 oxygen atom.

Answer 6

Because only 2 atoms of hydrogen and oxygen combined, thus, it becomes H2O.

Answer 7

There really isn't a reason...it just does.

Answer 8

yes