January 25th Blog Post.

So this class we relearned how to balance equations. It's a very basic thing to do, both the reactant side and the product side must be equal.

Some Steps:

1)  I create a list with values of each molecule in the equation, you can do this in your head like me or as work writing on a separate piece of paper.

2)Try to balance the lowest number of molecules on each side. You balance equations by finding a number and multiplying trying to make the equation equal.

3) Look out for  diatomic elements because they have a subscript of 2.  NEVER USE DECIMALS

An example. 

Al + O2                               ------->                                              Al2O3

On the left you have                                                   On the right you have

1Al and 2O                                                              2Al and 3O

Now you have to find numbers that will balance this equation. 

If I add 4 to Aluminum  and 3 to Oxygen

I would have 4 Al and 6O ( But we write 3O2).  Now I have to find a number that works with Al2 and O3

Al4 + 3O2 --------> 2Al2O3 (The first two multiplies everything in the compound.) 

A youtube video which should help.

Random Chemistry Joke of the day.

If H2O is the formula for water was is the formula for ice???

H20 Cubed.