CHEMISTRY SHENANIGANS

In today's class, we discussed balancing chemical equations. Mr. Doktor reminded us of two key things: in order to balance a chemical equation, you must first have the correct unbalanced equation, and specify the state of matter, i.e. (g) for gas, (s) for solid.

To balance a chemical equation correctly, you must have the same number of atoms (or moles) of one element on one side as well as the other.

ex. (in-class) Mg_(s) + 0_{2 (g)} -> MgO
2Mg_(s) + 0_{2 (g)} -> 2MgO

*note that 2Mg + 0₂ are the reactants and 2MgO is the product.

ex. (in-class) AlBr₃ + SrCO₃ -> Al₂(Co₃)₃ + SrBr₂
2AlBr₃ + 3SrCO₃ -> Al₂(Co₃)₃ + 3SrBr₂

ex. CO₂ + H₂ -> CH₄ + H₂O
CO₂ + 4H₂ -> CH₄ + 2H₂O

ex. Mg + P₄ -> Mg₃P₂
6Mg + P₄ -> 2Mg₃P₂

If you want more practice on balancing equations, click here.

Also, keep in mind that in order to make the correct chemical equation, you will need your Peridoic Table of Elements. If you're feeling hungry, this might help.. it's the Periodic Table in cupcake form!!



And if you need some more help, here's a video!