Why is it wrong to change subscripts while balancing an equation?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: They show composition of the substance
A subscript tells how many atoms of an element are present in one formula unit or molecule. For example, H₂O and H₂O₂ are different substances because their compositions differ. Changing a subscript during balancing would therefore change the reactant or product itself and violate the original reaction. Only coefficients placed before formulae may be changed to equalise atom counts.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
They show composition of the substance
Why is this the correct answer?
A subscript tells how many atoms of an element are present in one formula unit or molecule. For example, H₂O and H₂O₂ are different substances because their compositions differ. Changing a subscript during balancing would therefore change the reactant or product itself and violate the original reaction. Only coefficients placed before formulae may be changed to equalise atom counts.
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.
