Question

Which one of the following statements about balanced equations is TRUE? A reaction is balanced by

A) multiplying by suitable coefficients
B) changing the formula of the molecule
C) changing the charge of an ion
D) rearranging atoms in a molecule

Answer 1

A) multiplying by suitable coefficients

Step-by-step explanation:

When balancing a chemical equation, we adjust the coefficients in front of the chemical formulas to ensure that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation. This helps maintain the law of conservation of mass. We don't change the formula of the molecule, the charge of an ion, or rearrange atoms in a molecule to balance the equation.

Answer 2

A balanced chemical equation has the same number and types of atoms on both sides of the arrow. It can be achieved by multiplying suitable coefficients in front of the reactants or products.

Step-by-step explanation:

A chemical equation in which the same number and types of atoms appear on each side of the arrow is called balanced. In order to balance an equation, coefficients are multiplied by suitable factors in front of the appropriate reactants or products until there are the same number and types of atoms on both sides of the arrow.