Balancing Chemical Equations

Front

What is the little number after an element in a chemical equation called?

Back

Subscript

Front

What is the total number of atoms present in 5Na₃PO₄?

Back

40

Front

What is wrong with this balanced equation: Ag + O₂ → 2Ag₂O?

Back

The silver (Ag) still isn't balanced.

Front

What's unbalanced about this equation: Al + O₂ → Al₂O₃?

Back

Both oxygen and aluminum.

Front

Balance this equation: CF₄ + Br₂ → CBr₄ + F₂.

Back

1,2,1,2

Front

What is a coefficient in a chemical equation?

Back

A number placed in front of a compound to indicate how many molecules are present.

Front

How do you determine if a chemical equation is balanced?

Back

By ensuring the number of atoms for each element is the same on both sides of the equation.

Front

What does it mean to balance a chemical equation?

Back

To adjust the coefficients so that the number of atoms of each element is equal on both sides.

Front

What is the purpose of balancing chemical equations?

Back

To obey the law of conservation of mass, which states that matter cannot be created or destroyed.

Front

What is the balanced equation for the combustion of methane (CH₄)?

Back

CH₄ + 2O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O.