Balancing equations & identifying reaction types

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, indicating that mass is conserved during the reaction.

Front

What are the steps to balance a chemical equation?

Back

1. Write the unbalanced equation. 2. Count the number of atoms of each element on both sides. 3. Adjust coefficients to balance the atoms. 4. Repeat until all elements are balanced.

Front

What is the law of conservation of mass?

Back

The law of conservation of mass states that mass cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction; it can only change forms.

Front

What is a decomposition reaction?

Back

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

Front

What is a combustion reaction?

Back

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

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 the anions and cations of two different compounds exchange places, forming two new compounds.

Front

What is the coefficient in a balanced equation?

Back

The coefficient is a number placed in front of a compound in a chemical equation to indicate how many molecules or moles of that compound are involved in the reaction.

Front

How do you identify a combustion reaction?

Back

A combustion reaction typically involves a hydrocarbon reacting with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water.

Front

What is the role of coefficients in balancing equations?

Back

Coefficients are used to balance the number of atoms of each element on both sides of a chemical equation.