Here's how it applies:
* Chemical equations represent chemical reactions. These reactions involve rearranging atoms and molecules, not creating or destroying them.
* Balancing ensures that the same number of each type of atom appears on both sides of the equation. This maintains the equality of mass before and after the reaction, upholding the Law of Conservation of Mass.
In essence, balancing chemical equations is a way to demonstrate and uphold the fundamental principle of mass conservation in chemical reactions.