Balancing Equations and Reaction Types

Front

What is a balanced chemical equation?

Back

A balanced chemical equation has the same number of each type of atom on both sides of the equation, indicating that mass is conserved during the reaction.

Front

What is a coefficient in a chemical equation?

Back

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

Front

What is a subscript in a chemical formula?

Back

A subscript is a number written below and to the right of a chemical symbol that indicates the number of atoms of that element in a molecule.

Front

What type of reaction is represented by the equation: 2H₂ + O₂ → 2H₂O?

Back

This is a synthesis reaction, where two or more reactants combine to form a single product.

Front

What type of reaction is represented by the equation: 2NaCl → 2Na + Cl₂?

Back

This is a decomposition reaction, where a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler products.

Front

What type of reaction is represented by the equation: Zn + 2HCl → ZnCl₂ + H₂?

Back

This is a single replacement reaction, where one element replaces another in a compound.

Front

What type of reaction is represented by the equation: AgNO₃ + NaCl → AgCl + NaNO₃?

Back

This is a double replacement reaction, where the anions and cations of two different compounds exchange places.

Front

How do you determine if a chemical equation is balanced?

Back

Count the number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation. If they are equal, the equation is balanced.

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; it is conserved.

Front

What is the purpose of balancing chemical equations?

Back

Balancing chemical equations ensures that the same number of atoms of each element are present on both sides, reflecting the conservation of mass.