Physical Science: Balancing Equations

Front

What is a Balanced Chemical Equation (BCE)?

Back

A Balanced Chemical Equation shows the same number of each type of atom on both sides of the equation, indicating that mass is conserved during a chemical reaction.

Front

What is the Law of Conservation of Mass?

Back

The Law of Conservation of Mass states that in a closed system, the total mass of reactants equals the total mass of products; matter cannot be created or destroyed.

Front

What does it mean when we say 'matter is not created or destroyed'?

Back

It means that during a chemical reaction, the total amount of matter remains constant; atoms are rearranged but not lost or gained.

Front

How do you balance a chemical equation?

Back

To balance a chemical equation, adjust the coefficients in front of the chemical formulas to ensure that the number of atoms for each element is the same on both sides.

Front

What is the significance of coefficients in a chemical equation?

Back

Coefficients indicate the number of molecules or moles of a substance involved in a reaction, helping to balance the equation.

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What is the first step in balancing a chemical equation?

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The first step is to write the unbalanced equation and count the number of atoms of each element on both sides.

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What is an example of a balanced chemical equation?

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An example is: 2H₂ + O₂ → 2H₂O, which shows that 4 hydrogen atoms and 2 oxygen atoms are present on both sides.

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What happens to the mass of reactants and products in a chemical reaction?

Back

The mass of the reactants before the reaction is equal to the mass of the products after the reaction, according to the Law of Conservation of Mass.

Front

What is the role of a catalyst in a chemical reaction?

Back

A catalyst speeds up a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process, allowing the reaction to occur more efficiently.

Front

What is the difference between a reactant and a product?

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Reactants are the starting substances in a chemical reaction, while products are the substances formed as a result of the reaction.