
We don't like having halves in equations, as you can't get half a molecule. If you have to multiply by, say, 2 1/2, do so, THEN multiply EVERYTHING onĮach side of the equation by two to get rid of the half. To balance that element, multiply the chemical species on the side whichĭoesn't have enough atoms of that type by the number required to bring it Hydrogen and oxygen until you've done the others first.) Next, look for an element which is in only one chemical on the left and in

The numbers of each atom for the left hand side and for the right hand side. Some teachers recommend making a little table listing Start by finding out how many atoms of each type are on each There are two oxygens on the left but three on the right.īalanced Equation:- C 3H 8 + 5O 2 -> 4H 2Oīalancing chemical equations isn't difficult, once you know the There are eight hydrogens on the left but only two on the right. There are three carbons on the left, but only one on the

Unbalanced Equation:- C 3H 8 + O 2 -> H 2O

Then you will be able to see how many atoms of each type are in each chemical. It is very much easier to use a chemical equation with chemical symbols, as Also, you will find it very tricky to try to balance a word equation, But you can't justĪdd atoms at random to each side, you have to work with the molecules of the This is because of the law of conservation of mass - youĬan't make or destroy atoms during a chemical reaction. Hand side, if there are 4 oxygens on the left, there must 4 oxygens on the On the left hand side of the equation, you must have 12 hydrogens on the right What is a balanced equation?Ī chemical equation is balanced when the number of atoms of each type onĮach side of the equation is the same. If you already know the rules, then try these worked examples for revision practice. Them.) The key to balancing chemical equations is to apply the rules below.

They are not in your course and you will not have to worry about balancing If you don't know what a Half Equation is, then don't worry, as that means (A completely different method is used if you have to work with Half Equations. Meet at introductory level chemistry courses. Will show you a simple, easy way to balance all chemical equations you will AllĬhemical calculations require you to work with a balanced equation. Of chemistry, making this one of our most popular chemistry tutorials. Being able to balance chemical equations is a very important skill for students
