Balancing Chemical Reactions

These flashcards cover key concepts related to balancing chemical reactions, coefficients, and types of reactions.

Coefficient

A number placed in front of a chemical formula to indicate the number of molecules involved in a reaction.

Subscript

A number written below and to the right of a chemical symbol that tells how many atoms of that element are in a molecule.

Balanced Equation

An equation in which the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation.

Fractional Coefficients

Coefficients that are not whole numbers; they indicate a fractional amount of molecules, which cannot exist in a actual reaction.

Redox Reaction

A type of chemical reaction that involves the transfer of electrons between two species.

Precipitate

A solid that forms and settles out of a liquid mixture during a chemical reaction.

Polyatomic Ion

A charged ion composed of two or more atoms bonded together.

Hydrocarbon

A compound consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon, such as butane (C4H10).

Combustion Reaction

A chemical reaction that occurs when a substance reacts with oxygen, producing heat and light.

Reactant

A starting material in a chemical reaction.

Product

A substance formed as a result of a chemical reaction.

Solubility Rule

Guidelines used to predict whether a particular ionic compound will dissolve in water.