Balance this equation. if a coefficient of "1" is required, choose "blank" for that box.

ch3cho + o2 → co2 + h2o

Step 1: Write Imbalance Equation

CH₃CHO + O₂ → CO₂ + H₂O

Step 2: Balance Carbon Atoms:

There are 2 carbon atoms at reactant side and one at product side. So multiply CO₂ with 2 to balance them. i. e.

CH₃CHO + O₂ → 2 CO₂ + H₂O

Step 3: Balance Hydrogen Atoms:

There are 4 hydrogen atoms at reactant side and 2 Hydrogen atoms at product side. So, multiply H₂O by 2 to balance Hydrogen on both sides. i. e.

CH₃CHO + O₂ → 2 CO₂ + 2 H₂O

Step 4: Balance Oxygen Atoms:

There are 3 Oxygen atoms at reactant side and 6 Oxygen atoms at product side. In order to balance them multiply O₂ on reactant side by 2.5 (5/2). i. e

CH₃CHO + 5/2 O₂ → 2 CO₂ + 2 H₂O

Step 6: Eliminate Fraction:

Multiply overall equation by 2 to eliminate fraction. i. e.

2 CH₃CHO + 5 O₂ → 4 CO₂ + 4 H₂O