Balancing Equations

Front

What is the main purpose of balancing chemical equations?

Back

To ensure that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation, adhering to the law of conservation of mass.

Front

What are the two sides of a chemical equation called?

Back

Reactants (left) and Products (right).

Front

What is a coefficient in a chemical equation?

Back

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

Front

How many total atoms are in H2SO4?

Back

7 (2 Hydrogen, 1 Sulfur, 4 Oxygen).

Front

What is the first step in balancing a chemical equation?

Back

Count the number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation.

Front

What does it mean if a chemical equation is unbalanced?

Back

It means that the number of atoms of at least one element is not the same on both sides of the equation.

Front

What is the significance of subscripts in a chemical formula?

Back

Subscripts indicate the number of atoms of each element in a molecule.

Front

What is the difference between reactants and products?

Back

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

Front

How do you balance the equation PCl5 + H2O → HCl + H3PO4?

Back

By placing coefficients 4 in front of HCl and 5 in front of H2O.

Front

What is the balanced equation for Al + FeO → Al2O3 + Fe?

Back

2 Al + 3 FeO → Al2O3 + 3 Fe.