Which of the following is the correct word equation for the reaction described below?

Methanol (CH₃OH) forms when carbon monoxide reacts with hydrogen.

A. carbon monoxide + methanol → hydrogen

B. methanol → carbon monoxide + hydrogen

C. carbon monoxide + hydrogen → methanol

D. methanol + hydrogen → carbon dioxide



Answer :

To determine the correct word equation for the formation of methanol ([tex]\( CH_3OH \)[/tex]) when carbon monoxide reacts with hydrogen, we need to analyze the provided options and understand the reaction described.

Let's break down each option:

1. carbon monoxide + methanol [tex]\(\rightarrow\)[/tex] hydrogen
- This option suggests that methanol is reacting with carbon monoxide to produce hydrogen. This does not align with our goal of forming methanol; hence, this option is incorrect.

2. methanol [tex]\(\rightarrow\)[/tex] carbon monoxide + hydrogen
- This option suggests the decomposition of methanol into carbon monoxide and hydrogen, which is the reverse of what we are trying to achieve. Therefore, this option is also incorrect.

3. carbon monoxide + hydrogen [tex]\(\rightarrow\)[/tex] methanol
- This option suggests that carbon monoxide and hydrogen react together to form methanol, which matches the description of forming methanol from these reactants. This is a viable option and correctly describes the formation of methanol.

4. methanol + hydrogen [tex]\(\rightarrow\)[/tex] carbon dioxide
- This option suggests that methanol reacts with hydrogen to produce carbon dioxide. This does not fit the described reaction since it neither forms methanol nor uses carbon monoxide. Hence, it is incorrect.

Based on our evaluation, the correct word equation for the reaction where methanol forms when carbon monoxide reacts with hydrogen is:

carbon monoxide + hydrogen [tex]\(\rightarrow\)[/tex] methanol

Thus, the correct choice is:

Option 3: carbon monoxide + hydrogen [tex]\(\rightarrow\)[/tex] methanol

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