Question

After balancing a chemical equation, we ordinarily make sure that the coefficients are the smallest ________ possible.

Short answer

After balancing a chemical equation, we ordinarily make sure that the coefficients are the smallest \(whole\ numbers\) possible.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the goal of balancing a chemical equation

When balancing a chemical equation, the main goal is to ensure that the number of atoms of each element on the reactant side is equal to that on the product side, in accordance with the Law of Conservation of Mass. This helps us understand the stoichiometry of the reaction - that is, the relative amounts of reactants and products involved.

Recognize the importance of smallest coefficients

When balancing a chemical equation, it is essential to use the smallest possible whole number coefficients to maintain the simplicity and clarity of the equation. Using the smallest possible coefficients also makes it easier to interpret and apply the equation in various chemical calculations, such as determining the amounts of reactants and products needed or produced.

Fill in the blank with the correct term

Considering the goals of balancing a chemical equation and the importance of simplicity for better interpretation, the correct term to fill in the blank is "whole numbers." After balancing a chemical equation, we make sure that the coefficients are the smallest whole numbers possible.

Key concepts

Stoichiometry

Stoichiometry is a key concept in chemistry that helps us understand the quantitative relationships between reactants and products in a chemical reaction. This concept is grounded in balanced chemical equations, where each component is represented with specific ratios or proportions.
In a balanced equation, stoichiometry is what tells us how much of each substance is necessary to produce a desired product. It essentially acts as a recipe. When you know the stoichiometric coefficients (the numbers in front of molecules in a balanced equation), you can calculate how much of each ingredient you need—just like following a recipe to bake a cake.

• Stoichiometric coefficients indicate the ratio of moles of each reactant and product.
• These ratios help determine how much of each chemical is needed or will be produced.
• Understanding stoichiometry is crucial for scaling reactions up or down.

Overall, stoichiometry helps us efficiently plan chemical reactions, ensuring that there are enough reactants to complete the process without waste.

Law of Conservation of Mass

The Law of Conservation of Mass is a fundamental principle in chemistry, stating that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction. This concept underpins the practice of balancing chemical equations. For a chemical equation to be balanced, the mass of the reactants must be equal to the mass of the products.
This principle ensures that all atoms present in the reactants are accounted for in the products, meaning nothing is lost. When balancing equations:

• Count the number of atoms for each element in the reactants and products.
• Adjust coefficients to balance the equation so each element has the same number of atoms on both sides.
• Double-check by recounting atoms to ensure the mass is conserved.

Following the Law of Conservation of Mass gives us confidence that our chemical equations accurately represent the actual physical changes taking place.

Whole Number Coefficients

In balancing chemical equations, using whole number coefficients is essential. These numbers in front of chemical symbols represent the quantity of molecules or atoms involved in the reaction. The aim is to have the smallest set of whole numbers possible, simplifying interpretation and calculation.
Whole number coefficients ensure:

• Clarity in the equation by preventing fractional or complex numbers.
• Simplification in predicting the amounts of reactants and products.
• An easier way to communicate quantitative information in chemistry.

When you see a balanced chemical equation, the whole numbers allow an easy understanding of the exact proportions in play. It’s similar to scaling a recipe; you want to keep the ratios intact while maintaining clarity and simplicity.