Chemical Equation Balancer
The most advanced free stoichiometry tool. Features a 300+ compound database, instant algebraic balancing, limiting reagent calculation, and step-by-step matrix explanations.
About
In quantitative chemistry, precision is binary: an equation is either perfectly balanced, or it is useless. This tool transcends simple "guess-and-check" methods by employing a deterministic Algebraic Matrix Solver. Whether you are calculating industrial yields or solving complex redox half-reactions for a thesis, this engine guarantees adherence to the Law of Conservation of Mass.
Why this tool is different: Unlike basic calculators that simply output coefficients, this application includes a full Stoichiometry Suite. It automatically calculates Molar Masses, identifies reaction types (Synthesis, Decomposition, Combustion), and - if you provide masses - determines the Limiting Reagent and theoretical yield instantly. It supports polyatomic ions (e.g., SO42-) and provides a visualization of the molecular geometry.
Formulas
The core algorithm converts chemical symbols into a linear algebra problem Ax = 0. We define the conservation vector for every element E as:
Where cj is the stoichiometric coefficient for compound j, and aij is the number of atoms of element i in compound j (positive for reactants, negative for products). The solver computes the Null Space of this matrix to find the integer coefficients.
Reference Data
| Reaction Category | Equation Example | Stoichiometric Ratios | Technique Used |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrocarbon Combustion | C3H8 + O2 → CO2 + H2O | 1 : 5 : 3 : 4 | CH-O Balancing Method |
| Double Displacement | Pb(NO3)2 + KI → PbI2 + KNO3 | 1 : 2 : 1 : 2 | Ion Exchange Tracking |
| Synthesis (Redox) | Fe + O2 → Fe2O3 | 4 : 3 : 2 | Electron Transfer / LCM |
| Decomposition | KClO3 → KCl + O2 | 2 : 2 : 3 | Oxygen Balance |
| Acid-Base Neutralization | H2SO4 + NaOH → Na2SO4 + H2O | 1 : 2 : 1 : 2 | Proton Transfer |
| Complex Ion / Redox | MnO4- + Fe2+ + H+ → Mn2+ + Fe3+ + H2O | 1 : 5 : 8 : 1 : 5 : 4 | Half-Reaction Method (Charge Balance) |