How can we make a chemical equation more informative?
Or
How can we remove the drawbacks or limitations of a chemical equation?
The drawbacks of a chemical equation can be partially removed or we can make a chemical equation more informative as follows:
1. By specifying the physical states of the reactants and products in a chemical equation by putting the letter (s) for solid, (l) for liquid and (g) for gaseous state after the formula of the substance. The word (aq), which means aqueous solution, is used when the substance is in the form of solution, For example, reaction between sodium and water to form sodium hydroxide solution and hydrogen gas may be written as:
2. The concentrations of the reactants used in the form of solution can be shown by the word dil. for dilute and conc. for concentrated e.g.
3. By using a down arrow for the compound precipitated and an upward arrow
for a gas evolved. For example,
(i) Evolution of hydrogen gas.
(ii) Precipitation of AgCl.
4. By mentioning the condition of reaction such as heat (), pressure, catalyst on the arrow head.
5. In case of exothermic reactions, the sign "+ heat" is written along with the products.
In case of enodthermic reactions, the sign "-heat" is written along with products.