What is meant by the term 'balanced equation'?

Verified step by step guidance

1. A balanced chemical equation is one where the number of atoms for each element is the same on both the reactant and product sides of the equation.
2. To balance a chemical equation, start by writing the unbalanced equation with the correct chemical formulas for all reactants and products.
3. Count the number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation.
4. Adjust the coefficients (the numbers in front of the chemical formulas) to make the number of atoms of each element equal on both sides.
5. Check your work to ensure that all elements are balanced and that the coefficients are in the simplest whole-number ratio.

Key Concepts

Chemical Equation

A chemical equation is a symbolic representation of a chemical reaction, showing the reactants (starting substances) and products (substances formed) along with their respective quantities. It uses chemical formulas to depict the elements and compounds involved, providing a concise way to communicate the changes that occur during the reaction.

Law of Conservation of Mass

The Law of Conservation of Mass states that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction. This principle implies that the total mass of the reactants must equal the total mass of the products, which is fundamental in ensuring that a chemical equation is balanced, reflecting the same number of each type of atom on both sides of the equation.

Balancing Chemical Equations

Balancing a chemical equation involves adjusting the coefficients (the numbers in front of the chemical formulas) to ensure that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation. This process is essential for accurately representing the reaction and adhering to the Law of Conservation of Mass, allowing chemists to predict the outcomes of reactions and calculate reactant and product quantities.