How do you balance chemical equations?

Example question: _H2O --> _O+ _H2 First, work out how many of each element you have on each side. For example in this equation, Left: 2 hydrogen and 1 oxygen Right: 2 hydrogen and 2 oxygen We can therefore see that the hydrogens balance. There are twice as many oxygens on the right, so we need to divide it by 2. This leaves :  H2O --> 1/2 O+ H2 The equation now balances. It is also possible to times the whole equation by 2 to get rid of the fraction. 2 H2O --> O+ 2 H2

EW
Answered by Eve W. Science tutor

2844 Views

See similar Science 13 Plus tutors

Related Science 13 Plus answers

All answers ▸

What is produced when Hydrochloric acid reacts with sodium


Give the word equation for aerobic respiration and explain the difference between aerobic and anaerobic respiration in animals


Name the three states of a material and give an example of each.


Why does water expand when it gets cold while metals contract?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning