Chemical Equation Balancer
Instantly balance any chemical equation, from simple to complex.
Your balanced equation and a step-by-step explanation will appear here.
Why Do We Balance Equations?
Balancing a chemical equation is the first and most crucial step in stoichiometry. It's the process of upholding one of the universe's fundamental rules: the Law of Conservation of Mass. This law states that atoms are not created or destroyed in a chemical reaction—they are simply rearranged.
Write the Equation
Type your unbalanced equation into the input field. Use `->` or `=>` for the reaction arrow.
Click "Balance"
Our algorithm finds the smallest whole-number coefficients to balance the equation.
Verify the Inventory
The atom inventory confirms that the number of atoms is identical on both sides.
How It Works: The Math Behind the Magic
This tool converts the balancing problem into a system of puzzles and solves it instantly. Here’s a simplified look at the process for the reaction H₂ + O₂ → H₂O.
Assign Variables
Assign an unknown coefficient (x, y, z) to each molecule.
xH₂ + yO₂ → zH₂O
Create Puzzles
Create a puzzle for each element, ensuring atoms are equal on both sides.
- H:
2x = 2z - O:
2y = z
Solve the Puzzles
The computer finds the smallest whole numbers that solve all puzzles simultaneously.
x=2, y=1, z=2