Chapter 9.1, Problem 7SSC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The importance of balancing chemical equations 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 7SSC

To follow the law of conservation of mass, a chemical equation must be balanced.

Explanation of Solution

Law of conservation of mass is given by Lavoisier. This law states that in a chemical reaction, neither mass is created nor destroyed. The balancing of equations makes the number of atoms of every element of the reaction in both product and reactant side equal. This helps to follows the law of conservation of mass.

Conclusion

Every chemical reaction follows law of conservation of mass.