5.1 Flashcard: Parts of Chemical Equations

Front

What is a coefficient in a chemical equation?

Back

The large number in front of a chemical formula that indicates the number of molecules or moles of that substance.

Front

What are subscripts in a chemical equation?

Back

The small numbers written to the right of chemical symbols that indicate the number of atoms of that element in a molecule.

Front

Can coefficients be changed in a chemical equation?

Back

Yes, coefficients can be changed to balance a chemical equation.

Front

Can subscripts be changed in a chemical equation?

Back

No, subscripts cannot be changed as they represent the fixed number of atoms in a molecule.

Front

What does the number of C's in 2Na₂CO₃ represent?

Back

There are 2 carbon (C) atoms in 2Na₂CO₃.

Front

What is the purpose of balancing a chemical equation?

Back

To ensure that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation.

Front

What are reactants in a chemical equation?

Back

The substances that undergo a chemical change, found on the left side of the equation.

Front

What are products in a chemical equation?

Back

The substances that are produced as a result of a chemical reaction, found on the right side of the equation.

Front

What is the difference between reactants and products?

Back

Reactants are the starting materials in a reaction, while products are the substances formed as a result of the reaction.

Front

How do you identify coefficients in a chemical equation?

Back

Coefficients are the large numbers placed before the chemical formulas.