Balancing Chemical Reactions

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 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; the total mass of reactants equals the total mass of products.

Front

What is a synthesis reaction?

Back

A synthesis reaction is a type of chemical reaction where two or more simple substances combine to form a more complex product.

Front

What is a decomposition reaction?

Back

A decomposition reaction is a type of chemical reaction where a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler products.

Front

What is a single replacement reaction?

Back

A single replacement reaction is a type of chemical reaction where one element replaces another element in a compound.

Front

What is a double replacement reaction?

Back

A double replacement reaction is a type of chemical reaction where two compounds exchange ions or bonds to form two new compounds.

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 are coefficients in a chemical equation?

Back

Coefficients are the numbers placed before the compounds in a chemical equation to indicate the number of molecules or moles of each substance.

Front

What is the balanced equation for photosynthesis?

Back

6CO2 + 6H2O -> C6H12O6 + 6O2.

Front

What is the balanced equation for the combustion of methane?

Back

CH4 + 2O2 -> CO2 + 2H2O.