Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the first step in writing a balanced equation?
When balancing atoms, which elements should be balanced first?
What is the primary reason why a balanced equation is essential in chemistry?
What is the rule regarding coefficients in a balanced equation?
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What should never be changed during the balancing process?
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Why are parentheses used when balancing polyatomic ions?
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What is the purpose of adding coefficients to a balanced equation?
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What is the final step in writing a balanced equation?
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Study Notes
Writing Balanced Equations
Importance of Balanced Equations
- A balanced equation is essential to accurately represent a chemical reaction
- It ensures that the law of conservation of mass is obeyed
- It allows for the calculation of reactant and product quantities
Steps to Write a Balanced Equation
- Write the unbalanced equation: Start by writing the reactants on the left and products on the right
- Count the atoms: Count the number of atoms of each element on both the reactant and product sides
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Balance the atoms: Balance the atoms by adding coefficients (numbers in front of formulas) to the reactants or products
- Start with elements that appear in only one formula: Balance these elements first
- Balance polyatomic ions as a single unit: Treat polyatomic ions as a single entity
- Balance hydrogen and oxygen last: These elements often have multiple formulas and can be tricky to balance
- Check the equation: Verify that the number of atoms of each element is equal on both sides
- Repeat the process: Continue adding coefficients and checking the equation until it is balanced
Tips and Tricks
- Coefficients must be whole numbers: You cannot have a fraction of a molecule
- Never change the subscripts: The subscripts (small numbers in chemical formulas) remain the same throughout the balancing process
- Use parentheses: When balancing polyatomic ions, use parentheses to group the ions together
Example: Balancing the Equation for the Combustion of Methane
Unbalanced equation: CH₄ + O₂ → CO₂ + H₂O
Balanced equation: CH₄ + 2O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O
Note: The coefficients 2 in front of O₂ and 2 in front of H₂O are added to balance the equation.
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Description
Learn how to write balanced chemical equations, ensuring the law of conservation of mass and calculate reactant and product quantities. Understand the steps to write a balanced equation.
