To balance a chemical equation, coefficients are adjusted in front of the chemical formulas of reactants and products. These coefficients represent the relative amounts of each substance involved in the reaction and are adjusted to ensure that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation.
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Balancing a chemical equation involves adjusting coefficients to ensure that the same number of atoms for each element is present on both sides. Start by balancing elements that appear only once on each side and progress to more complex molecules. Use whole numbers as coefficients, ensuring the smallest possible integer ratios. Balance atoms of oxygen and hydrogen last, as they often appear in multiple compounds. Regularly reassess the equation after each adjustment. Aim for the lowest whole-number coefficients to represent the true stoichiometry. Patience and systematic adjustments lead to a balanced equation that adheres to the law of conservation of mass.