Chapter 9.1, Problem 11SSC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Whether the adjustment of subscript is possible while balancing a chemical reaction or not needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

A chemical equation is termed as balanced chemical equation if the number of atoms of every element is equal in the reactant side and product side. One example is,

${\text{N}}_{\text{2}}+3{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\to 2{\text{NH}}_{\text{3}}$

In the reaction, number of nitrogen atom is 2 and the number of hydrogen atom is 6 in both the reactant and product side. So, the equation is balanced chemical equation.

Answer to Problem 11SSC

No, the adjustment of subscript is not possible while balancing a chemical reaction.

Explanation of Solution

The subscript in the formula of chemical compound represents the number of atoms in the molecule. Changing the subscripts alters the ratio of atoms in the molecule and results a different molecule. So, the changing subscript while balancing a chemical reaction is the wrong method.

Conclusion

The change of coefficient is possible but changing of subscripts of molecules is not possible.