Pre-Matrix Balancing of Challenging Chemical Equations with a Simple Formula Register and Middle School Arithmetic

Authors

L. Hutchings, Francis Marion University
L. Peterson, Francis Marion University
A. Almasude, Capella University

Publication Date

2007

Abstract

This paper describes a procedure employing basic relational concepts (analogous to certain matrix algebra concepts), but structured by a simple formula register and using only middle school arithmetic to balance chemical equations ranging from easy to moderate to difficult redox reactions. This procedure allows average students and below average students to experience ready success in balancing, thus avoiding a traditional source of frustration and failure which might contribute to their losing interest in chemistry. One interesting serendipity of this procedure is how quickly it turns able pre-matrix students into extremely fast and accurate balaneers.

Volume

9

Issue

1

First Page

119

Last Page

133

Rights

© Virginia Mathematics and Science Coalition, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0) (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25891/WGXS-NZ41

Recommended Citation

Hutchings, L.; Peterson, L.; and Almasude, A. (2007) "Pre-Matrix Balancing of Challenging Chemical Equations with a Simple Formula Register and Middle School Arithmetic," Journal of Mathematics and Science: Collaborative Explorations: Vol. 9: No. 1, Article 19.
Available at: https://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/jmsce_vamsc/vol9/iss1/19