Balancing Equations

A balanced equation has the same number of each type of atom on both sides of the equation.

An unbalanced equation does not have the same number of each type of atom on both sides.

Count the number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation.

The large number to the left of a formula that indicates how many molecules or moles of that substance are present.

To adjust the coefficients in a chemical equation so that the number of atoms for each element is the same on both sides.

To obey the law of conservation of mass, which states that matter cannot be created or destroyed.

Write down the number of atoms of each element present in the reactants and products.

Subscripts indicate the number of atoms of each element in a molecule.

2H₂ + O₂ → 2H₂O.

It ensures that the total mass of reactants equals the total mass of products.