CHEMISTRY REVISION UNIT 2

The empirical formula of a compound tells us the simplest ratio of atoms in that
compound. It is found from experimental data.
The molecular formula of a compound tells us the actual number of atoms in a
compound of one mole of that compound.
A fully balanced equation or stoichiometric equation is one that shows the formulae of
reactants and products and the relative number of particles reacting. e.g.

An ionic equation is one where the ions are represented separately. Only ionic
compounds can be represented as ions. Covalent substances and elements cannot be
represented as ions. Also, ionic solids cannot be represented as free ions because the
ions are not free to move.

How to construct ionic equations

1) Write down the stoichiometric equation:

2) Split all the ionic compounds into their free ions where possible:

3) Cancel all spectator ions in the equation. These are ions that play no part in the
reaction:

4) Write out what is left:

CHEMISTRY REVISION UNIT 2