Balanced Chemical Equation
An equation in which the number of atoms of each element and the total charge are identical on both sides.
Formula / equation
Σ atoms(left) = Σ atoms(right)
Unit
Dimensionless
In depth
Balancing enforces the law of conservation of mass and is achieved by adjusting coefficients only — never subscripts, which would change the substances involved. Convention requires the smallest whole-number set of coefficients. Only a balanced equation can be used for any quantitative calculation.
Examples in the real world
C₃H₈ + 5O₂ → 3CO₂ + 4H₂O, where 3, 8, 10 atoms of C, H and O appear on each side.