GCSE Chemistry - Balancing Chemical Equations #4

The video tutorial explains chemical equations, focusing on the difference between word and symbol equations. It emphasizes the importance of balancing chemical equations by ensuring the same number of each type of atom on both sides of the equation. The tutorial provides step-by-step guidance on balancing equations, using examples like methane combustion and the reaction between sulphuric acid and sodium hydroxide. Key rules include not changing subscripts and using whole numbers. The process often involves trial and error to achieve a balanced equation.

What are the substances called that are present on the left side of a chemical equation?

• Inhibitors

• Catalysts

• Reactants

• Products

Why is it important to use O2 instead of O in chemical equations?

• Oxygen exists as a diatomic molecule

• Oxygen is a compound

• Oxygen is a single atom

• Oxygen is a noble gas

What is the first rule of balancing chemical equations?

• Add new elements

• Remove elements

• Change the little numbers

• Change the big numbers

Why can't we use fractional numbers when balancing chemical equations?

• Equations must have whole numbers

• Fractions are difficult to calculate

• Fractions are not allowed in chemistry

• Fractions change the chemical properties

In the example of balancing methane combustion, what is the final number of water molecules on the right side?

• 4

• 1

• 2

• 3

In the sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide example, which element should be balanced first according to the recommendation?

• Hydrogen

• Sulfur

• Sodium

• Oxygen

After balancing the equation with sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide, how many sodium atoms are present on each side?

• 3

• 2

• 1

• 4