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Ch.3 - Mass Relationships in Chemical Reactions
Chapter 3, Problem 40c

Balance the following equations. (c) CaCN2 + H2O → CaCO3 + NH3

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1
Identify the number of each type of atom on both sides of the equation.
Start by balancing the atoms that appear in the fewest compounds, such as Ca and C.
Balance the nitrogen atoms by ensuring the number of NH_3 molecules matches the nitrogen atoms in CaCN_2.
Balance the hydrogen atoms by adjusting the number of H_2O molecules.
Finally, check and balance the oxygen atoms to ensure both sides of the equation have the same number.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

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.
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Stoichiometry

Stoichiometry is the calculation of reactants and products in chemical reactions. It allows chemists to predict the amounts of substances consumed and produced in a reaction based on balanced equations. Understanding stoichiometry is essential for determining how much of each reactant is needed and how much product can be formed.
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Types of Chemical Reactions

Chemical reactions can be classified into several types, including synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, and double replacement reactions. The reaction in the question involves a double replacement reaction, where ions exchange partners. Recognizing the type of reaction helps in predicting the products and understanding the underlying chemistry.
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