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 an 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 on the left side and the products on the right. It uses chemical formulas to depict the substances involved and their respective quantities. Understanding chemical equations is essential for grasping how substances interact and transform during reactions.

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 is fundamental in chemistry, as it requires that the total mass of reactants must equal the total mass of products in a balanced equation. This law ensures that all atoms present in the reactants are accounted for in the products.

Balancing Chemical Equations

Balancing chemical equations involves adjusting the coefficients of the reactants and products to ensure that the number of atoms for each element is the same on both sides of the equation. This process is crucial for accurately representing the reaction and adhering to the Law of Conservation of Mass. A balanced equation provides a clear and precise description of the chemical reaction taking place.