H7 // Book Problem Clarification

[Frenz Cabison 1B]

When a problem says that Molecule A reacts with Element B in the presence of C, we don't have to write/include C in the equation right? For instance, in problem H7, the problem is:
Write a balanced equation for [...] the reaction of ammonia gas with oxygen gas at high temperatures in the presence of a copper metal catalyst produces the gases water and nitrogen dioxide.

Since copper is just a catalyst, we don't have to write it on the equation right?

So the answer will be: 4NH3 (g) + 7 O2 (g) ---> 6 H2O (g) + 4 NO2 (g)...

Is this right?

[Girija_3E]

Yes, that is correct. If I'm right, catalysts are not consumed during reactions, but only serve to speed up the rate of the chemical reaction. In other words, they are not a reactant or a product, so you would not include them in the chemical equation! Hope that helps!

[Jasmine Botello 2F]

You do not include the catalyst in the equation because its only purpose is to speed up the process of the reaction.

[Justin Chu 1G]

Although catalysts are not necessary to include in a chemical reaction, I think they are still often referenced by writing them above the arrow, no?

[Justin Chang 2K]

Yeah, you reference the catalyst by putting it above the arrow, but you wouldn't include it in the actual chemical equation.