Chemical Reactions

Balancing Equations

Scientists use a form of balancing called Chemical Equations to check chemical reactions. ​

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Today's lesson will cover the terms and figures within chemical equations!

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There are hundreds of equations that can be represented using balancing!

Chemical Equations

Equation Terminology​

Let's take a look at a sample equation here to get started!

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​4Li + O2 ---> 2LiO2

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​The left side of the equation are the Reactants.

​The right side of the equation are the Products.

Chemical Equations

​4Li + O2 ---> 2LiO2

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The plus sign separates the reactants

​The subscript (small numbers) tells you how many atoms of the element are in the compound!​

The arrow is the Yield Sign for the equation.

The Coefficient (big numbers) tells you how much of the compound you have​.

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What is a Chemical Equation?

A chemical equation represents the bonds breaking apart in a chemical reaction. It shows the shuffling of atoms from one compound to another!

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​They also show the conservation of matter, showing the number of atoms before the reaction is equal to the number of atoms afterwards!

Time for Work!

You have three assignments on Discovery Education. Start working in your table groups to complete your work!

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If you are done, I have equations for you to balance afterwards! ​