Kenan Fellows Program Logo and page header graphic

Integrating Chemistry & Algebra II

Balancing Equations Using Matrices

Introduction:

This activity is designed to show students a practical application for matrices within the context of chemistry.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Students will be able to set up a system of equations to solve for the coefficients in a chemical reaction.
  • Students will be able to use a matrix to solve the system.
  • Students will be able to determine the coefficients required to make the chemical reaction balanced.
  • Students will be able to explain that the reaction must be balanced in order to be in compliance with the Law of Conservation of Mass.

Curriculum Alignment:

Chemistry SCOS:

  • 5.02 Evaluate the law of conservation of matter to the balancing of chemical equations.

Algebra 2 SCOS:

  • 1.04 Operate with matrices to model and solve problems

Classroom time required:

  • 90 min

Materials needed:

  • Student handouts,
  • Graphing calculator

Pre-activities:

  • Students will need to solve system of equations using a matrix.

Activities:

  • Students will use a matrix to determine the coefficients of the reactants and products in a chemical reaction.

Assessment:

  • You Try problems.

Critical vocabulary:

  • Matrix,
  • System of equations,
  • Chemical reaction,
  • Balance,
  • Law of conservation of mass

Comments:

This activity worked best when the Algebra 2 teacher had students do it after the students learned how to solve a matrix using their calculator. This allows students to have another method for balancing equations other than the method taught in Chemistry. We used this activity before the students learned about chemical reactions.