Balancing Equations

Front

What is a balanced chemical equation?

Back

A balanced chemical equation has equal numbers of each type of atom on both sides of the equation, following the law of conservation of mass.

Front

What does the coefficient in a chemical equation represent?

Back

The coefficient indicates the number of molecules or moles of a substance involved in the reaction.

Front

How do you balance a chemical equation?

Back

To balance a chemical equation, adjust the coefficients of the reactants and products to ensure the same number of each type of atom on both sides.

Front

What is the law of conservation of mass?

Back

The law of conservation of mass states that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction.

Front

What is the first step in balancing a chemical equation?

Back

Identify and write down the number of atoms of each element present in the reactants and products.

Front

Balance the equation: __C + __O₂ --> __CO₂.

Back

1, 1, 1

Front

What is the role of subscripts in a chemical formula?

Back

Subscripts indicate the number of atoms of each element in a molecule.

Front

Balance the equation: __Fe + __O₂ --> __Fe₂O₃.

Back

4, 3, 2

Front

What is a reactant in a chemical reaction?

Back

A reactant is a substance that undergoes change during a chemical reaction.

Front

Balance the equation: __H₂ + __O₂ --> __H₂O.

Back

2, 1, 2