Balanced equation

[missynanner]

the theoretical equation SeF4 + 4(CH3)3SiCN ---> Se(CN)4 + 4(CH3)3SiF is given. The product Se(CN)4 is not actually formed. The new compound actually formed has the % mass of Se(60.3) C(18.3) and N(21.4). I have determined the empirical formula to be SeC2N2 but then if (CH3)3SiF is also formed in the expected ratio, what is the actual balanced equation? (there is one more compound formed from the remaining elements)

[CaptainPanic]

Eeh.

At first glance the 1st reaction you posted is already balanced:

 

[ce]SeF4 + 4(CH3)3SiCN -> Se(CN)4 + 4(CH3)3SiF[/ce]

 

But you want to look at another reaction:

[ce]SeF4 + 4(CH3)3SiCN -> SeC2N2 + 4(CH3)3SiF + X[/ce]

 

[ce]X[/ce] is the unknown compound.

 

You need to look at the difference between the compounds. Count all the elements on the left side (how many of each element) and also on the right.

They should be the same (like in the 1st reaction). If they are not, then you know what to put in the compound [ce]X[/ce].