This chemistry question involves key chemical concepts and calculations. The detailed solution below walks through each step, from identifying the reaction type to computing the final answer.
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Benzene is produced from xylene through a process called hydrodealkylation. In this reaction, xylene (a benzene ring with two methyl groups) reacts with hydrogen gas at high temperatures and pressures, typically over a catalyst. The methyl groups are removed from the xylene ring and converted into methane, leaving behind benzene. Here's the process with an example using o-xylene: Step 1: Identify reactant and product. Reactant: o-xylene (C_8H_10) and hydrogen gas (H_2) Product: Benzene (C_6H_6) and methane (CH_4) Step 2: Write the unbalanced equation. C_8H_10 + H_2 catalyst, heat C_6H_6 + CH_4 Step 3: Balance the equation. To balance the carbon atoms, we need two molecules of methane for every molecule of xylene. C_8H_10 → C_6H_6 + 2CH_4 Now, balance the hydrogen atoms. On the left, we have 10 hydrogen atoms from xylene. On the right, we have 6 hydrogen atoms from benzene and (2 × 4) = 8 hydrogen atoms from 2CH_4, totaling 14 hydrogen atoms. To balance, we need to add 4 hydrogen atoms to the left side, which means 2H_2 molecules. C_8H_10 + 2H_2 catalyst, heat C_6H_6 + 2CH_4 What's next?