To describe the [tex]\( SO_3 \)[/tex] component in the chemical reaction:
[tex]\[ S_8(s) + 12 O_2(g) \rightarrow 8 SO_3(g) \][/tex]
we need to consider the stoichiometry of the reaction. The balanced equation indicates how the reactants and products are related in terms of their molecules.
The balanced equation tells us that 1 molecule of [tex]\( S_8 \)[/tex] reacts with 12 molecules of [tex]\( O_2 \)[/tex] to produce 8 molecules of [tex]\( SO_3 \)[/tex]. So, the number of [tex]\( SO_3 \)[/tex] units produced can be described in the correct terms from the given options:
1. 8 atoms [tex]\( SO_3 \)[/tex] - This is incorrect because [tex]\( SO_3 \)[/tex] is a molecule, not an atom. Each [tex]\( SO_3 \)[/tex] molecule consists of 1 sulfur atom and 3 oxygen atoms, making a total of 4 atoms per molecule.
2. 8 molecules [tex]\( SO_3 \)[/tex] - This is correct. According to the balanced chemical equation, the reaction produces exactly 8 molecules of [tex]\( SO_3 \)[/tex].
3. 80.07 g [tex]\( SO_3 \)[/tex] - This is incorrect. Although it is possible to calculate the mass of [tex]\( SO_3 \)[/tex] produced, this number does not match the stoichiometric quantities given in the equation without further context or details about the number of moles involved.
4. 32 L [tex]\( SO_3 \)[/tex] - This is incorrect. The volume of a gas can be determined under specific conditions (such as STP) but requires additional information about the conditions under which the reaction occurs. The balanced equation gives no direct information about volume.
Therefore, the correct choice is:
8 molecules [tex]\( SO_3 \)[/tex].
