Question

Can anybody explain how to balance equations? Can you like dumb it down. Not because I'm stupid, but because I don't understand chemistry. :(

Answer 1

If you post an equation I can explain it while helping you with it :)

Answer 2

okay:) let me go find one

Answer 3

CH3CH2OH + O2 yields CO2 + H2O
where it says yields is where the arrow is supposed to be.

Answer 4

Ok this is simple :) Well 1st off you need to know that both sides have to be equal

Answer 5

Since ___CH3CH2OH + ___O2 > __CO2 + ___H2O

Answer 6

If you put numbers in front were the lines are they multiply with all of the elements in that one equation. Example: If I put a 2 in front of H2O it would = H4O2

Answer 7

how would it be H4O2?

Answer 8

because you are multiplying the number 2 to the whole H2O. The number you are multiplying (the coefficient) will be multiplied by every number in the equation so it would be : 2*H2=H4 and 2*O=O2

Answer 9

okay. I get that now but im still confused about the rest of it ....

Answer 10

ok, so like Carniel said, you are trying to get the same amount of stuff on both sides.

Answer 11

so it would be CH3CH2OH + 3 O2 = 2 CO2 + 3 H2O

Answer 12

it is somewhat difficult for me to explain through chat, however, I can suggest you use this video to learn. Im sorry http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGf60kq_ZDI or http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZzwziP04448

Answer 13

its okay:) I appreciate the help!

Answer 14

no problem! and sorry I could't explain it to you

Answer 15

its okay:)

Answer 16

Sorry I couldn't help more :( Had a meeting to go to

Answer 17

its okay @Carniel :)