Chemical Equation Balancer to Balance Reactions ...

Why Must Equations Be Balanced?

The Law of Conservation of Mass states that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction. Therefore, every chemical equation must have equal numbers of each type of atom on both sides. Balancing ensures correct stoichiometry for predicting reactant/product quantities.

⚗️ Chemical Equation Balancer

Use our free calculator for instant, accurate results.

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📐 Formula

aA + bB → cC + dD

Find the smallest integer coefficients (a,b,c,d) such that atoms of each element are equal on both sides. Coefficients multiply ALL atoms in the formula.

📝 Worked Example

Unbalanced: Fe + O₂ → Fe₂O₃
Count: Fe: 1=2 ✗, O: 2=3 ✗
Balanced: 4Fe + 3O₂ → 2Fe₂O₃
Count: Fe: 4=4 ✓, O: 6=6 ✓

📝 How to Use the Calculator

Enter Your EquationType reactants and products using standard chemical notation (e.g., H2O, CO2, Fe2O3).

SubmitThe balancer finds minimum integer coefficients automatically.

VerifyConfirm atom counts match on both sides for every element.

Use in StoichiometryUse balanced equation to calculate molar ratios and limiting reagents.

❓ FAQ

What if there are polyatomic ions like SO₄²⁻?

Treat polyatomic ions that appear unchanged on both sides as single units — do not split them into individual atoms during balancing.

Can all equations be balanced by inspection?

Simple ones yes. More complex reactions (especially redox) use the half-reaction method or algebraic (matrix) method.

Why Must Equations Be Balanced?