Why are coefficients, rather than subscripts, changed when balancing a chemical equation?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Coefficients change the amount of a substance, not its chemical identity.
Subscripts specify the ratio of atoms in one molecule or formula unit; changing them changes the substance itself. For example, \(\mathrm{H_2O}\) and \(\mathrm{H_2O_2}\) are different substances. Coefficients multiply the number of whole molecules or formula units, so they can adjust the total number of atoms of each element without changing a substance’s identity. Option C is incorrect because a coefficient does not change the number of atoms within a single molecule.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Coefficients change the amount of a substance, not its chemical identity.
Why is this the correct answer?
Subscripts specify the ratio of atoms in one molecule or formula unit; changing them changes the substance itself. For example, \(\mathrm{H_2O}\) and \(\mathrm{H_2O_2}\) are different substances. Coefficients multiply the number of whole molecules or formula units, so they can adjust the total number of atoms of each element without changing a substance’s identity. Option C is incorrect because a coefficient does not change the number of atoms within a single molecule.
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.
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