Chemistry Blog
Clear, practical guides to the ideas behind the definitions.
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What Are Reactants in Chemistry? Reactants are the starting substances used up in a chemical reaction. See how to read them in an equation, plus limiting reactants, catalysts and spectator ions.
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Solute vs Solvent vs Solution: What's the Difference? The solute is what dissolves, the solvent does the dissolving, and the solution is the mixture that results. A clear comparison with saltwater examples.
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What Is a Solvent in Chemistry? A solvent is the substance present in the greatest amount in a solution, the one that does the dissolving. How solvents work, with examples and a table.
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Endothermic vs Exothermic Reactions: What's the Difference? Endothermic reactions absorb heat and cool surroundings (delta H positive). Exothermic reactions release heat and warm surroundings (delta H negative).
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Stoichiometry: A Step-by-Step Guide with Examples Stoichiometry uses a balanced equation and mole ratios to predict amounts of reactants and products. Learn the method step by step with fully worked examples.
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How to Write Electron Configurations (Step by Step) Learn how to write electron configurations step by step. Master the Aufbau order, Pauli and Hund rules, noble-gas shorthand, and the Cr and Cu exceptions.