How to Balance Chemical Equations

The video tutorial explains how to balance chemical equations by adjusting coefficients. It covers three examples: the reaction of sodium and oxygen, the combustion of methane, and the reduction of iron from iron oxide. Each example demonstrates counting atoms on both sides of the equation and adjusting coefficients to achieve balance, ensuring the same number of each type of atom on both sides.

What is the first step in balancing the reaction between sodium and oxygen?

• Remove sodium atoms

• Change the coefficient of oxygen

• Change the coefficient of sodium

• Add more oxygen molecules

In the combustion of methane, what should be balanced after carbon?

• Oxygen

• Hydrogen

• Methane

• Water

How many oxygen molecules are needed on each side to balance the combustion of methane?

• Five

• Four

• Three

• Two

What is the initial adjustment made to balance the reduction of iron from iron oxide?

• Add more iron

• Triple the amount of oxygen

• Double the amount of iron oxide

• Double the amount of carbon

After balancing the oxygen in the iron reduction reaction, what is the next element to balance?

• Iron

• Hydrogen

• Carbon

• Oxygen