What is the balanced chemical equation for the reaction between boron and chorine?

Question

I'm really trying to figure out this equation... thanks for the help guys

Answer 1

2B + 3Cl2  ---> 2BCl3

Boron is in group 3  of the table so it has a valency of 3, Cl on the other hand is in group 7 of the table so it has a valency of 1.

Now for a compound to be formed the valances much match.

As B has 3 so Cl much = 3.

As Cl is 1 therefor 3 x Cl = 3 and therefore a match with the valancy of B.

So the equation is.

B + Cl ---> BCl3

However as Cl is a diatomic gas ie Cl2 is the natural form of it. you rarely get it as Cl.

So as Cl is Cl2 (2 atoms of Cl) we times the whole equation by 2.

Wherefore

B + 3Cl --> BCl3 becomes

2B + 3Cl2--> 2BCl3

Answer 2

The most common boron/chlorine compound in boron trichloride.

A reaction between boron and chlorine would produce boron trichloride.

2B(s) + 3Cl2(g) --> 2BCl3(g)

The commercial production of boron trichloride starts with boron oxide.

B2O3(s) + 3C(s) + 3Cl2(g) --> 2BCl3(g) + 3CO(g)