To balance a chemical equation means to equalize the number of atoms on both sides of the equation by putting appropriate coefficients in front of the formulas.

Only two methods of balancing chemical equations will be discussed under this topic. These are the inspection and the Least Common Multiple (LCM) method.

1. The Inspection Method

Most simple chemical equations can be balanced using this method. Balancing an equation by inspection means to adjust coefficients by trial and error until the equation is balanced. Follow the following four steps to balance the chemical equation.

Step 1: Write the word equation.

Step 2: Write the correct symbols or formulas for the reactants and products.

Step 3: Place the smallest whole number coefficients in front of the symbols or formulas until the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation.

Note: When you balance an equation, do not change any symbol or formula of any compound. If you change a symbol or formula, it no longer represents the element or compound required by the equation.

2. The LCM Method

In the LCM method, the coefficients for the balanced chemical equation are obtained by taking the LCM of the total valency of reactants and products and then dividing it by total valency of reactants and products. All the necessary steps to balance a chemical equation by the LCM method, are shown by the following examples.