Key Idea.
Section 1
The Law of Conservation
The universe follows a strict rule: The Law of Conservation of Matter. This law states that atoms cannot be created or destroyed during a chemical reaction.
This means the total mass of the system remains constant from start to finish. The mass of the products always equals the mass of the reactants.
Section 2
Balancing the Atoms
Because atoms are conserved, every atom that enters a reaction must be accounted for at the end. If a reaction starts with six carbon atoms, it must end with six carbon atoms.
Scientists use balanced equations to track this. Counting the atoms ensures that the "math" of the reaction works, proving that no matter was lost or created.
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Section 1
The Law of Conservation
The universe follows a strict rule: The Law of Conservation of Matter. This law states that atoms cannot be created or destroyed during a chemical reaction.
This means the total mass of the system remains constant from start to finish. The mass of the products always equals the mass of the reactants.
Section 2
Balancing the Atoms
Because atoms are conserved, every atom that enters a reaction must be accounted for at the end. If a reaction starts with six carbon atoms, it must end with six carbon atoms.
Scientists use balanced equations to track this. Counting the atoms ensures that the "math" of the reaction works, proving that no matter was lost or created.
Book overview
Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.
Continue this chapter