Balancing Chemical Equations Calculator

The Balancing Chemical Equations Calculator helps determine coefficients that make a chemical equation satisfy conservation of atoms. A balanced equation has the same number of atoms of every element on both sides of the reaction.

What Balancing Means

Balancing changes the coefficients placed in front of chemical formulas. It does not change subscripts inside a formula because changing a formula would change the identity of the substance.

How to Use the Calculator

1. Enter the chemical equation in the format supported by the tool.
2. Check that reactants and products are written with the correct chemical formulas.
3. Run the calculator.
4. Review the coefficients and verify the number of atoms of each element on both sides.

Example

For the unbalanced reaction H₂ + O₂ → H₂O, placing a coefficient of 2 before H₂ and H₂O gives 2H₂ + O₂ → 2H₂O. There are now four hydrogen atoms and two oxygen atoms on each side.

Why Correct Formulas Matter

A balancing calculator cannot correct an incorrectly written chemical formula by changing the identity of a compound. Always check the formulas first, then use coefficients to conserve the atoms represented in the reaction.