Chemical Equation Balancer
Check if a simple chemical equation is balanced by entering coefficients and atomic counts.
Chemical Equation Balancer
Check if a simple chemical equation is balanced by entering coefficients and atomic counts.
Formula
Total atoms of each element must be equal on both sidesWhat is This Tool?
A balanced chemical equation has the same number of each type of atom on both the reactant and product sides, satisfying the law of conservation of mass. Balancing ensures that matter is neither created nor destroyed in a reaction.
Formula
For each element:
Sum of atoms on reactant side = Sum of atoms on product side
Only coefficients (not subscripts) may be changed to balance.Worked Examples
1. Combustion of hydrogen
Given: H2 + O2 -> H2O (unbalanced)
Reactant: 2 H, 2 O
Product: 2 H, 1 O -- not balanced
Balance: 2H2 + O2 -> 2H2O
Now: 4 H, 2 O on each side
Result: Balanced: 2H2 + O2 -> 2H2O
2. Synthesis of ammonia
Given: N2 + H2 -> NH3 (unbalanced)
Balance nitrogen: coefficient 2 for NH3
Balance hydrogen: coefficient 3 for H2
N2 + 3H2 -> 2NH3
Result: Balanced: N2 + 3H2 -> 2NH3
Frequently Asked Questions