Balancing chemical equations requires ensuring that the number of each type of atom is equal on both sides of the equation. However, discrepancies can arise when the reaction is written out, often due to improper representation of compounds or missing coefficients. To correct this, one must ensure that the correct formulas and coefficients are used in the written equation, reflecting the balanced state accurately.When naming compounds, Roman numerals and prefixes are employed to clarify the oxidation states or quantity of atoms, especially when multiple compounds exist with the same base name. For example, "iron oxide" is ambiguous because it could refer to multiple iron oxides, necessitating the use of Roman numerals to specify whether it is iron (II) oxide or iron (III) oxide. In contrast, names like "zinc oxide" do not require additional clarification since there is only one form of zinc oxide, making it unambiguous. Using Roman numerals for zinc oxide is not incorrect, but it is unnecessary.