Which of the following is least helpful in balancing an equation?
A) Use a balance sheet to keep track of the number of elements.
B) Try different coefficients and subscripts to balance the number of atoms.
C) Begin with elements that appear only once on each side of the equation.
D) Change only the coefficients to balance the number of atoms.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Changing subscripts alters the substances involved in the reaction, not just their amounts, making it incorrect for balancing chemical equations. Coefficients should be adjusted instead to balance the equation.

Which of the Following Is Least Helpful in Balancing an Equation