Final answer:
Chemical equations need to be balanced in order to accurately reflect the law of conservation of matter. In a balanced equation, the same number of each element should be represented on both the reactant and product sides.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chemical equations need to be balanced in order to accurately reflect the law of conservation of matter. In a balanced equation, the same number of each element should be represented on both the reactant and product sides. To determine whether a chemical equation is balanced or unbalanced, you need to count the number of each type of atom on both sides of the equation and compare them.
Examples:
- 2Na(s) + O₂(g) → 2Na₂O(s) - This equation is balanced because there are equal numbers of Na and O atoms on both sides.
- CH4(g) + 2O2(g) → CO₂(g) + 2H₂O(l) - This equation is balanced because there are equal numbers of C, H, and O atoms on both sides.
- AgNO3(aq) + 2KCl(aq) → AgCl(s) + KNO3(aq) - This equation is balanced because there are equal numbers of Ag, N, O, and Cl atoms on both sides.