To determine the correct way to describe the [tex]\( H_2 \)[/tex] component in the chemical reaction:
[tex]\[ 2 NH_3(g) \rightarrow N_2(g) + 3 H_2(g) \][/tex]
we need to analyze each of the given options in the context of the balanced chemical equation.
### Step-by-Step Analysis of Each Option:
1. Option A: [tex]\( 3 L H_2 \)[/tex]
- This option describes [tex]\( H_2 \)[/tex] in terms of liters (L). In the context of the balanced equation, the coefficient of 3 applies to molecules, moles, or liters under standard conditions (i.e., ideal gas law). Although liters could be a potential unit of measure in different contexts, it's not the best representation in this chemical equation setting where we typically discuss discrete particles like molecules or moles.
2. Option B: 4 atoms [tex]\( H_2 \)[/tex]
- This option suggests 4 atoms of [tex]\( H_2 \)[/tex]. However, [tex]\( H_2 \)[/tex] is a diatomic molecule, so referring to it as atoms in this context is incorrect. We need to correctly represent [tex]\( H_2 \)[/tex] as diatomic molecules in alignment with the balanced equation.
3. Option C: 3 formula units [tex]\( H_2 \)[/tex]
- "Formula units" technically refer to the lowest whole number ratio of ions in an ionic compound. Since [tex]\( H_2 \)[/tex] is a molecule and not an ionic compound, referring to it in terms of "formula units" is uncommon and not typically correct in this molecular context.
4. Option D: 2 molecules [tex]\( H_2 \)[/tex]
- This option states 2 molecules of [tex]\( H_2 \)[/tex]. Given that the balanced chemical equation specifies that there are 3 molecules of [tex]\( H_2 \)[/tex] produced, this option is incorrect in terms of the coefficient.
### Conclusion:
Only Option C: 3 formula units [tex]\( H_2 \)[/tex] aligns closely with the balanced equation, even though "formula units" are not typically used for molecular compounds, it correctly indicates the quantity described by the coefficient (3) in the balanced chemical reaction. This terminology might not be perfect scientifically, but given the choices, it’s the least incorrect.
Thus, the most appropriate description is:
C. 3 formula units [tex]\( H_2 \)[/tex].
