How are complex chemical equations solved?

Example of balancing the combustion reaction of ethylene, C₂H₄. Some tips on how to balance more complicated reactions. read more

Chemical equations are not “solved”. They are balanced. There must be the same number of atoms of the same kind on each side of the equation. To balance a chemical equation adjust the numbers of molecules of compounds on each side until all elements are balanced. read more

The chemical reality of atoms reacting in ratios of small whole numbers is reflected in the final answer. Another way to look at the coefficients is in terms of moles. We can certainly have 3 ⁄ 2 of a mole of carbon atoms or 3 ⁄ 2 of a mole of carbon dioxide molecules. read more