3H2 + N2 → 2NH3

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Detailed Guide on Writing Balanced Equations

Writing balanced equations is an essential skill in chemistry. It allows us to represent chemical reactions accurately and understand the stoichiometry of the reaction. In this guide, we will discuss the step-by-step process of writing balanced equations and provide examples to help you practice. Let’s dive in!

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What is a Balanced Equation?

A balanced equation represents a chemical reaction in which the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation. It follows the law of conservation of mass, which states that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction, only rearranged.

For example, let’s take the reaction: 3H2 + N2 → 2NH3. In this reaction, hydrogen (H2) and nitrogen (N2) react to form ammonia (NH3). To write a balanced equation, we need to ensure that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation.

The Steps to Write a Balanced Equation

Step 1: Identify the Reactants and Products

The first step is to identify the reactants and products in the chemical reaction. Reactants are the substances that undergo the reaction, while products are the substances formed as a result of the reaction.

In our example, the reactants are 3H2 and N2, and the product is 2NH3.

Step 2: Write the Skeleton Equation

The skeleton equation represents the unbalanced equation, where the coefficients (numbers in front of the formulas) are not yet determined.

In our example, the skeleton equation is: 3H2 + N2 → 2NH3. The coefficients are placeholders for the balancing process.

Step 3: Balance the Hydrogen Atoms

Start by balancing the elements that appear in the fewest compounds. In this case, we have hydrogen (H) in H2 and NH3.

There are 6 hydrogen atoms on the left side (3H2) but only 2 hydrogen atoms on the right side (2NH3). To balance the hydrogen atoms, we need to put a coefficient of 2 in front of H2.

The equation now becomes: 2H2 + N2 → 2NH3.

Step 4: Balance the Nitrogen Atoms

Next, balance the nitrogen (N) atoms. We have 1 nitrogen atom on the left side (N2) and 2 nitrogen atoms on the right side (2NH3).

To balance the nitrogen atoms, we need to put a coefficient of 2 in front of NH3.

The equation now becomes: 2H2 + N2 → 4NH3.

Step 5: Check for the Overall Balance

Finally, check if the equation is balanced by counting the number of atoms on both sides. In our balanced equation, we have:

On the left side: 2 hydrogen atoms (2H2) and 1 nitrogen atom (N2).

On the right side: 8 hydrogen atoms (4NH3) and 2 nitrogen atoms (4NH3).

Both sides have an equal number of atoms, so the equation is balanced.

Conclusion

Writing balanced equations is a crucial skill in chemistry. It ensures that the number of atoms of each element is conserved during a chemical reaction. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently write balanced equations for various chemical reactions.

FAQs

Q: Why is writing balanced equations important in chemistry?

A: Writing balanced equations is important because it allows us to accurately represent chemical reactions and understand the stoichiometry of the reaction.

Q: What is the law of conservation of mass?

A: The law of conservation of mass states that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction, only rearranged.

Q: How do you balance hydrogen atoms in an equation?

A: To balance hydrogen atoms, adjust the coefficients in front of the hydrogen-containing compounds until the number of hydrogen atoms is the same on both sides of the equation.

Q: What is the first step in writing a balanced equation?

A: The first step is to identify the reactants and products in the chemical reaction.

Q: How do you check if an equation is balanced?

A: Check the number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation. If the number of atoms is the same, the equation is balanced.

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