Common Symbols
Symbols are used to differentiate between different types of reactions. To denote the type of reaction:
- "" symbol is used to denote a stoichiometric relation.
- "" symbol is used to denote a net forward reaction.
- "" symbol is used to denote a reaction in both directions.
- "" symbol is used to denote an equilibrium.
Physical state of chemicals is also very commonly stated in parentheses after the chemical symbol, especially for ionic reactions. When stating physical state, (s) denotes a solid, (l) denotes a liquid, (g) denotes a gas and (aq) denotes an aqueous solution.
If the reaction requires energy, it is indicated above the arrow. A capital Greek letter delta is put on the reaction arrow to show that energy in the form of heat is added to the reaction. is used if the energy is added in the form of light.
Read more about this topic: Chemical Equation
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—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)