Question

How do you balance `Fe + Cl_2 -> FeCl_3`?

Answer 1

You balance it stoichiometrically. Garbage in equals garbage out.

Explanation:

`Fe(s) + 3/2Cl_2(g) rarr FeCl_3(s)`

If you don't like the non-integral stoichiometric coefficient, you are free to double the entire equation:

`2Fe(s) + 3Cl_2(g) rarr 2FeCl_3(s)`

Both equations are PRECISELY the same. They represent the same mass transfer. The first equation may be a little easier to use if you had to work the quantities of gas required for iron oxidation.