Is the number of total atoms on the left side of a balanced equation always equal to the number of total atoms on the right side of the equation?

Yes, in a balanced chemical equation, the total number of atoms on the left side is always equal to the total number of atoms on the right side. This reflects the law of conservation of mass, which states that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction. Balancing the equation ensures that all atoms are accounted for, maintaining the same quantity before and after the reaction.