Why is balancing an equation by changing chemical formulae wrong?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Because it changes the identity of the substance
Chemical formulae show the fixed composition and identity of substances. If a subscript is changed while balancing, the ratio of atoms within a molecule changes and a different substance may be represented. Therefore option A is correct. A chemical equation must be balanced by changing only coefficients placed before formulae, because coefficients alter the number of particles without changing the substances themselves.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Because it changes the identity of the substance
Why is this the correct answer?
Chemical formulae show the fixed composition and identity of substances. If a subscript is changed while balancing, the ratio of atoms within a molecule changes and a different substance may be represented. Therefore option A is correct. A chemical equation must be balanced by changing only coefficients placed before formulae, because coefficients alter the number of particles without changing the substances themselves.
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.
