How to Balance Chemical Equations

Name: How to Balance Chemical Equations
Rating: 4.6 (23 reviews)

Quickly become a pro at balancing equations.

Created byWayne Breslyn

Last updated 4/2023

English

What you'll learn

Correctly balance chemical equations.
Tell the difference between coefficients and subscripts in equations.
Balance equations with polyatomic ions.
State the reasons scientists balance chemical equations.
Understand how to effectively learn chemistry content.

Course content

1 section • 18 lectures • 33m total length

Introduction to Course0:35
Course introduction. Be sure to download the Course Guide so you have notes and examples to review later!
Example: Na + Cl2 → NaCl1:36
Try and balance the equation Na + Cl2 → NaCl and then watch the video to check your work.
Coefficients & Subscripts1:06
Understanding the difference between Coefficients and Subscripts is essential for balancing equations.
Practice: Na + O2 → Na2O1:21
Remember, you can only change the coefficients (the numbers in front of elements or compounds). The small numbers after (the subscripts) cannot be changed!
Problem #2: Al + Cl2 → AlCl31:26
In this video you'll learn how to deal with odd numbered subscripts.
Practice: Al + O2 → Al2O31:35
More practice with odd numbered subscripts.
Why do we balance chemical equations?0:58
There is likely one big reason we balance equations that your teacher forgot to mention.
Using the Mole Ratio for Al + O2 = Al2O3 to Solve Mole Problems2:09
As you go on in chemistry you will used the coefficients from balanced chemical equations to find the mole ratio and solve reaction stoichiometry problems.
Problem #3: Mole Ratio for S8 + O2 → SO22:09
A practice problem using the mole ratio from the balanced equation.
How to Quickly Learn Chemistry Topics0:48
Follow this cycle to learn more quickly and effectively in chemistry.
How to Balance Equations with Polyatomic ions0:56
Equations with compounds containing polyatomic ions, like Ca(OH)2, Al(NO3)3, are actually fairly easy to balance!
Problem #4: CuSO4 + NaOH → Cu(OH)2 + Na2SO41:57
A practice problem involving polyatomic ions. This is actually a rather beautiful reaction (https://youtu.be/lZor1hcRZX4).
Practice: BaCl2 + Al2(SO4)3 → BaSO4 + AlCl32:23
More practice since this comes up frequently on chemistry exams.
Balancing Combustion Reactions1:07
Combustion reactions can be difficult for students because they sometimes involve fractional coefficients. This is how you can solve them.
Problem #5: C2H6 + O2 → CO2 + H2O2:30
Practice balancing a combustion reaction (this equation comes up quite often on exams).
Practice: C6H14 + O2 → CO2 + H2O1:44
Yet another combustion reaction to balance.
Moving Forward0:30
The next steps to make sure you have mastered balancing equations.
Practice Balancing (easy, medium, and challenging problems)
Even more practice balancing chemical equations (with answers).8:29
A video lecture on balancing equations with practice and explanation.

Requirements

There are no pre-requisites for this course.

Description

Chemical equations are the foundation of chemistry. Whether you're a high school student, college student, or professional chemist, being able to balance chemical equations quickly and effectively is essential to being successful in chemistry. In this course you will learn the fundamental principles and techniques for balancing chemical equations in a way that is both fast and effective.

Through a combination of video lectures and practice problems you will gain a deep understanding of the key concepts involved in balancing chemical equations. You will learn how to identify the reactants and products in a chemical reaction, how to determine the coefficients for the balanced equation, and how to apply these principles to a wide variety of chemical reactions.

But this course isn't just about balancing equations – it's also about doing well on homework, quizzes, and exams. Throughout the course, you will receive valuable tips and strategies for approaching chemistry problems, managing your time effectively, and staying focused and motivated.

Whether you're struggling with chemical equations or simply looking to improve your skills, this course is the perfect choice for you. By the end of the course, you will have the tools and knowledge you need to excel in chemistry and achieve your academic goals.

Who this course is for:

Students in a general chemistry course at the high school or introductory college level.