Balanced equations are really important for helping us understand stoichiometry in the lab. They help us figure out how much of each chemical we need when they react. Here are some important points to know:

1. Understanding How Chemicals Work Together:

   • Balanced equations show that matter is not lost. This means the number of atoms for each element stays the same.
   • For example, look at this reaction between hydrogen and oxygen: $2H_2 + O_2 \rightarrow 2H_2O$
   • This tells us that 2 parts of hydrogen combine with 1 part of oxygen to make 2 parts of water.

2. Calculating Amounts of Chemicals:

   • By using the ratios from balanced equations, students can figure out how much of a chemical they need or how much they will produce.
   • For example, if you use 4 parts of $H_2$, you will get 4 parts of $H_2O$. This shows how they are directly related.

3. Working Better in the Lab:

   • By using balanced equations for measurements, we can reduce waste and stay safe. This helps students know the right amounts to use.

In short, balanced equations give us a clear way to do experiments and understand how chemicals behave in numbers.