Chemical Equation - Common Symbols

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

Famous quotes containing the words common and/or symbols:

    Let us pray for the whole state of Christ’s Church Militant here in earth.
    —Book Of Common Prayer, The. Holy Communion, “Prayer for the Church Militant,” (1662)

    Many older wealthy families have learned to instill a sense of public service in their offspring. But newly affluent middle-class parents have not acquired this skill. We are using our children as symbols of leisure-class standing without building in safeguards against an overweening sense of entitlement—a sense of entitlement that may incline some young people more toward the good life than toward the hard work that, for most of us, makes the good life possible.
    David Elkind (20th century)