Why is it incorrect to change the subscripts in a chemical formula while balancing a chemical equation?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: The chemical identity and formula of the substance change.
Subscripts specify the fixed number of atoms of each element in a compound. For example, changing H₂O to H₂O₂ changes water into hydrogen peroxide, so it changes the substance itself. Only coefficients should be changed when balancing because they change the number of molecules or moles without changing the chemical formula.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
The chemical identity and formula of the substance change.
Why is this the correct answer?
Subscripts specify the fixed number of atoms of each element in a compound. For example, changing H₂O to H₂O₂ changes water into hydrogen peroxide, so it changes the substance itself. Only coefficients should be changed when balancing because they change the number of molecules or moles without changing the chemical formula.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Chemical Reactions and Equations.
