Balancing equations

[Chem_Mod]

There's a Balancing Equation question in the course reader that I was unsure about. It says the answer can be: 2C6H7N + 31/2O2 --> 12CO2 + 7H2O + N2 OR 4C6H7N + 31O2 --> 24CO2 + 14H2O + 2N2 Are both answers correct? Isn't the second answer the only acceptable one because you can't have a fraction as a coefficient?

[Chem_Mod]

Both answers are correct and have identical meaning. You can have a fraction as a stoichiometric coefficient, although usually it makes calculations simpler to work with whole numbers.

[Kay Foos 2M]

Although both answers are correct, it is recommended to have whole numbers for stoichiometric coefficients. On an exam, generally use whole numbers.

[704628249]

They are both correct. But always go with the whole numbers. Especially if its a problem involving chemical equilibrium because if you didn't use whole numbers, your K value would be incorrect.