Intermediate
Chemical Reactions
Use conservation of atoms to read, check, and eventually balance equations for reaction patterns students meet in exams and labs.
Learning outcomes
- Count atoms on both sides of a chemical equation
- Explain conservation of mass using balanced equations
- Recognize synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, and combustion examples
- Spot common coefficient and subscript mistakes
Visual notes
Coefficients multiply every atom in the formula that follows them.
Subscripts are part of the formula and should not be changed while balancing.
A balanced equation has equal atom counts for every element on both sides.