The balanced equation is Mg + 2AgNO₃ ⟶ Mg(NO₃)₂ + 2Ag
Step 1. Write the unbalanced equation
Mg + AgNO₃ ⟶ Mg(NO₃)₂ + Ag
Step 2. Start with the most complicated-looking formula [Mg(NO₃)₂] and balance its atoms.
Mg: Already balanced —1 atom each side.
N: We need 2 N on the left. Put a 2 in front of AgNO₃.
1Mg + 2AgNO₃ ⟶ 1Mg(NO₃)₂ + Ag
O: Already balanced —6 atom6 each side.
Step 3: Balance Ag
We have 2Ag on the left. We need 2Ag on the right.
1Mg + 2AgNO₃ ⟶ 1Mg(NO₃)₂ + 2Ag
