Recording-2025-03-20T15:58:21.195Z
Law of Conservation of Mass
Matter cannot be created or destroyed.
For every atom involved in a chemical reaction (reactants), there must be an equal number of atoms in the products side.
This principle was first noted by French scientist Antoine Lavoisier during experiments in a sealed bell jar where he observed that the mass remained constant during chemical reactions.
Balancing Chemical Reactions
Besides mass, charge must also be balanced in a reaction: total charge of reactants must equal total charge of products.
Focus primarily on ions during reactions for charge balancing.
Tips for Balancing Reactions
Balance Complex Molecules First
Start with the most complex molecule in the equation.
Hydrogen and Oxygen Last
Delay balancing hydrogen and oxygen until all other elements are balanced.
Balance Elemental Atoms Last
If elemental metals (like aluminum) are present, balance them at the end.
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