Balancing chemical equations

Front

What is the Law of Conservation of Mass?

Back

It states that matter cannot be created or destroyed.

Front

What is a coefficient in a chemical equation?

Back

The large number in front of a chemical formula that indicates how many molecules or moles of that substance are present.

Front

How do you determine if a chemical equation is balanced?

Back

A chemical equation is balanced when the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation.

Front

What is the first step in balancing a chemical equation?

Back

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

Front

What does it mean to balance a chemical equation?

Back

To adjust the coefficients in a chemical equation so that the number of atoms for each element is equal on both sides.

Front

What is the balanced equation for the combustion of propane (C3H8)?

Back

C3H8 + 5O2 -> 3CO2 + 4H2O.

Front

What is the significance of balancing chemical equations in chemistry?

Back

It reflects the Law of Conservation of Mass and ensures that the same amount of matter is present before and after a reaction.

Front

What are the common methods used to balance chemical equations?

Back

Trial and error, inspection, and algebraic methods.

Front

What is the balanced equation for the reaction of aluminum and hydrochloric acid?

Back

2Al + 6HCl -> 3H2 + 2AlCl3.

Front

What is the role of subscripts in a chemical formula?

Back

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