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Language of Chemistry

How chemists write elements as symbols, combine them into formulae using valency, and describe reactions as balanced chemical equations.

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What this chapter covers

  1. Symbols, Valency and Chemical Formula

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    • Chemical SymbolsOne- or two-letter element abbreviations.
    • ValencyCombining capacity of an element.
    • Chemical FormulaShows atoms of each element present.
    • Ions and Their ValenciesCharged atoms or groups, like Fe²⁺.

  2. Chemical Equations

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    • Chemical Equations BasicsShorthand for reactions using symbols, formulae.
    • Balancing Chemical EquationsSame atoms on both sides.
    • Informative Chemical EquationsAdd states, gas and precipitate signs.
    • Limitations of Chemical EquationsNo rate, conditions or completeness shown.

Try a sample question

What is the balanced equation when iron reacts with oxygen to form ferric oxide?

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