1. Balancing Chemical Equations
Chemistry

2. Law of Conservation of Matter
The mass (the amount of matter) must stay the same on the left and right side of a chemical reaction.
Let's look at the combustion of CH4.
CH4 + O2 → CO2 + H2O
What is the number of each element on each side?

3. Balancing with pictures:
With combustion reactions, balance with Mr. CHO. Always save elements to be balanced LAST!!!

4. Polyatomic ion is grouped on both sides-so it can be one picture.

5. Final Hints
Using the same process (drawing pictures), group up and determine how to demonstrate the balancing of YOUR questions.
Hints:
Polyatomic Ions can be looked at as a UNIT (don't  break them up) IF they appear on BOTH sides of the equation...
 Make a chart. Cut out pieces if you have to/draw out the pictures. Remember that you HAVE to add the ENTIRE   compound-NEVER individual elements...
 Balance elemental (LONE) items last, ie: Na, O2, etc...
 NEVER FORGET THE COEFFICIENTS...This is the final step in a chemical equation.

6. Breaking off…
You will be counted off These are your group numbers.
The problems that you are assigned to determine your problem numbers…for example, if you are #3, your numbers are 3, 10, and 17.
Take your group number, that is your first problem, then add 7 to each up to #21.
You will make posters for each of your groups. Get creative. Due by the end of the hour. Use the colored pencils, paper, etc.