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Balancing Chemical Equations Worksheet

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Balancing Chemical Equations Worksheet

A reaction rearranges atoms; it does not create or destroy them. Add whole-number coefficients in front of formulas so each element has the same number of atoms on both sides. Never change a formula’s subscripts. Write a coefficient of 1 when needed for your working, but omit it in the final equation.

Part A: Atom-counting detective

Start by counting atoms in the formulas. Remember that a subscript applies to the element just before it; brackets multiply everything inside.

1.In the equation N₂ + 3H₂ → 2NH₃, which substances are the reactants, and which substance is the product?

2.For the unbalanced equation H₂ + O₂ → H₂O, count each type of atom on each side. What needs to be balanced?

3.Which change is allowed when balancing a chemical equation?

Change H₂O to H₂O₂
Add a coefficient in front of a formula
Delete an element that appears on one side
Change an element’s symbol

Element

Atoms on left

Atoms on right

_____

4.Fill the four blanks in the Atom-count check table for 2H₂ + O₂ → 2H₂O. Are both elements balanced?

Part B: Balance the reaction

Add the smallest whole-number coefficients. Include the complete balanced equation in each answer.

5.Balance H₂ + O₂ → H₂O. Write the coefficients in order for H₂, O₂ and H₂O.

6.Balance Na + Cl₂ → NaCl. Write the smallest whole-number coefficients in order.

7.Methane burns in oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water. Balance CH₄ + O₂ → CO₂ + H₂O, then state how many O₂ molecules are needed.

8.Balance the reaction between aluminium and copper(II) sulfate: Al + CuSO₄ → Al₂(SO₄)₃ + Cu. Treat the sulfate group SO₄ as a unit.

9.A student changes H₂O to H₂O₂ to make the oxygen count match. This is a valid way to balance an equation. True or false? Explain your choice.

10.Balance Fe₂O₃ + CO → Fe + CO₂. Then explain how your balanced equation shows that atoms are conserved.

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Year 8

Balancing Chemical Equations Worksheet

Balancing Chemical Equations Worksheet

Part A: Atom-counting detective

Part B: Balance the reaction

3 printable pages

About This Worksheet

Free in Kuraplan

Print-Ready

AI-Generated

For Teachers & Parents

Need a custom version of this worksheet?

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