It seems that balancing a chemical equation is a guess work, where one is supposed to pick out the necessary set of whole numbers. If this is the case, the process of balancing an equation would become rather difficult if the chemical formulas get more complex. I was wondering if there exists a more efficient way? Are there any algebraic formulas for doing that?
2007-10-26 19:02:51 · 5 answers · asked by guyava99 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
The formulas do get more complex in oxidation-reduction reactions, and there are a number of algebraic steps to take to balance the reaction.
1. Write the net ionic reaction for the oxidation step, then separately, for the reduction step.
2. Do atom balance, using H2O where necessary
3. Do electron balance, showing whether electrons are produced or used, after finding the change in oxidation state of the reacting species.
4. Do charge balance, adding H+ or OH- where necessary
5. Multiply whole ionic reaction(s) by number(s) which will cancel out the electrons.
6. Add up all the reactants and products, and cancel out those that show up on both sides of the equation.
2007-10-26 19:18:26 · answer #1 · answered by papastolte 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not really. You could set up equations for each element involved and then solve all equations in the usual algebraic way. However, with practice, you will get the hang of it.
2007-10-26 19:17:00 · answer #2 · answered by cattbarf 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
well, you can try balancing half equations first. That's much easier than guessing.
2007-10-26 19:15:43 · answer #3 · answered by Cute Curious Cat 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
uh, nope. I don't think so. I just learned it and im in 8th grade and its sooooo confusing!
2007-10-26 19:59:00 · answer #4 · answered by Sinead is stupid 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is a way to do it using matrices.
2007-10-26 19:34:04 · answer #5 · answered by niuchemist 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋