---
title: "Balanced Equation — AP Chemistry Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "A balanced equation has equal atoms of every element (and equal charge) on both sides, showing conservation of mass. It's the foundation for stoichiometry and net ionic equations in AP Chem Unit 4."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-chem/key-terms/balanced-equation"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Chemistry"
---

# Balanced Equation — AP Chemistry Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

A balanced equation is a chemical equation where the number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation is equal. It follows the law of conservation of mass.

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Stoichiometry](/ap-chem/key-terms/stoichiometry): The study and calculation of quantities (masses or volumes) during chemical reactions based on balanced equations.
- [Coefficients](/ap-chem/key-terms/coefficients): Numbers placed before chemical formulas to balance equations by adjusting the number of atoms or molecules involved.
- [Law of Conservation of Mass](/ap-chem/key-terms/law-of-conservation-of-mass): States that matter cannot be created or destroyed in ordinary chemical reactions; therefore, mass must remain constant throughout any given reaction.