Balancing Equations and 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, following the law of conservation of mass.

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 involved in the reaction.

Front

What is the first step in balancing a chemical equation?

Back

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

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, typically producing carbon dioxide and water.

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 identify a single replacement reaction?

Back

A single replacement reaction occurs when one element replaces another element in a compound, resulting in a new element and a new compound.

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 the difference between a synthesis reaction and a decomposition reaction?

Back

A synthesis reaction combines two or more substances to form a new compound, while a decomposition reaction breaks down a compound into simpler substances.

Front

How do you determine the type of reaction from a chemical equation?

Back

To determine the type of reaction, analyze the reactants and products to see if they involve synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, double replacement, or combustion.

Front

What is the balanced equation for the reaction of SnO2 and H2?

Back

The balanced equation is: 1 SnO2 + 2 H2 → 1 Sn + 2 H2O.