Balancing and reaction types

Front

What is the law of conservation of mass?

Back

The law states that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction; it is conserved.

Front

What is a chemical equation?

Back

A representation of a chemical reaction using symbols and formulas to show the reactants and products.

Front

What is a reactant?

Back

A substance that undergoes change during a chemical reaction.

Front

What is a product?

Back

A substance that is formed as a result of a chemical reaction.

Front

What does it mean to balance 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 is a coefficient in a chemical equation?

Back

A number placed in front of a chemical formula to indicate how many molecules or moles of that substance are involved.

Front

What is a single replacement reaction?

Back

A reaction where one element replaces another in a compound, resulting in a new element and a new compound.

Front

What is a double replacement reaction?

Back

A reaction where two compounds exchange ions or bonds to form two new compounds.

Front

What is a combustion reaction?

Back

A reaction that occurs when a substance combines with oxygen, releasing energy in the form of light or heat.

Front

What is a decomposition reaction?

Back

A reaction where a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler products.