Balancing Chemical Equations Practice

The video tutorial guides viewers through the process of balancing a chemical equation involving potassium hydrogen carbonate and sulfuric acid. It begins with an introduction to the equation and initial atom counting. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of counting atoms accurately, including polyatomic ions, and provides step-by-step instructions to balance potassium, hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon atoms. The video concludes with a final check to ensure the equation is balanced, highlighting common pitfalls and the need for precision in atom counting.

What is the total number of hydrogen atoms present before balancing the equation?

• Two

• Three

• Four

• Five

Why might it be helpful to count a polyatomic ion as a single unit?

• It is a standard practice in chemistry.

• It ensures the equation is balanced.

• It reduces the number of atoms to count.

• It simplifies the balancing process.

What coefficient is placed in front of KHCO3 to balance potassium?

• 2

• 1

• 4

• 3

How many oxygen atoms are there on the reactant side after balancing?

• Eight

• Ten

• Seven

• Nine

What is the final number of carbon atoms on the product side after balancing?

• Four

• Three

• Two

• One

What is the total number of oxygen atoms on the product side after balancing?

• Eleven

• Ten

• Nine

• Eight

What is the main challenge in balancing chemical equations like this one?

• Finding the right coefficients

• Counting atoms accurately

• Understanding chemical reactions

• Memorizing chemical formulas

What is the final balanced equation for the reaction?

• 2 KHCO3 + H2SO4 → K2SO4 + 2 CO2 + 2 H2O

• KHCO3 + H2SO4 → K2SO4 + CO2 + H2O

• 2 KHCO3 + H2SO4 → K2SO4 + CO2 + H2O

• KHCO3 + H2SO4 → K2SO4 + 2 CO2 + 2 H2O

What is the role of sulfuric acid in the reaction?

• It balances the equation.

• It acts as a catalyst.

• It provides hydrogen and sulfate ions.

• It is a product of the reaction.

What should you do each time you change an oxygen atom in the equation?

• Verify the reactant side

• Check the product side

• Adjust the coefficients

• Recount all atoms