When iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3) is exposed to carbon monoxide (CO) under high pressure, metallic iron (Fe) and carbon dioxide (CO2) are produced. Write and balance the reaction equation

First, we have to write our equation. It's actually pretty straightforward - first we look for our reactants (looks like it's Fe₂O₃ and CO), then we look for our products (Fe and CO₂). Then, we have to balance it so that both sides have the same number of both element.

Currently, we have the equation Fe₂O₃ + CO ⇒ Fe + CO₂. There are 2 Fe atoms, 4 O atoms, and 1 C atom on the left side. There is 1 Fe atom, 2 O atoms, and 1 C atom on the right side.

First thing we can do is give our Fe on the right side a coefficient of 2. This will make it equivalent to the 2 Fe atoms on the left side:

Fe₂O₃ + CO ⇒ 2Fe + CO₂

Next, we need to make sure that we have the same number of C and O atoms on each side. This takes a little bit of thinking, but what we have to do is give CO a coefficient of 3 and CO₂ a coefficient of 3. This gives us 6 O atoms on the left side (when we include the O₃) and 6 O atoms on the right side (since there are 3 O₂ atoms and 3 times 2 is 6). Here's what that looks like:

Fe₂O₃ + 3CO ⇒ 2Fe + 3CO₂

And that's how I balanced the equation. It can be confusing, but with enough practice, it will get easier and easier. :)