Balance the following equations: c. NaHCO3(𝑠)+H2SO4(𝑎𝑞)⟶CO2(𝑔)+H2O(𝑙)+Na2SO4(𝑎𝑞)

Key Concepts

Balancing Chemical Equations

Balancing chemical equations involves ensuring that the number of atoms for each element is the same on both sides of the equation. This is based on the law of conservation of mass, which states that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction. Coefficients are used to adjust the quantities of reactants and products to achieve balance.

Types of Chemical Reactions

The reaction between sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is an example of an acid-base reaction, where an acid reacts with a bicarbonate to produce carbon dioxide (CO2), water (H2O), and a salt (Na2SO4). Understanding the type of reaction helps predict the products formed and the stoichiometry involved in balancing the equation.

Stoichiometry

Stoichiometry is the calculation of reactants and products in chemical reactions based on their molar ratios. It allows chemists to determine how much of each substance is needed or produced in a reaction. In balancing equations, stoichiometric coefficients are essential for ensuring that the proportions of reactants and products are correct according to the balanced equation.