Symbols, formulae and equations - (CCEA)Equations

Symbols, formulae and equations help chemists to explain chemical reactions in detail.

Part ofCombined ScienceStructures, trends, chemical reactions, quantitative chemistry and analysis

Equations

In a chemical reaction, the substances that react together are called and the substances that are made are called .

Word equations

All reactions can be represented in , which must contain an arrow (→).

reactants → products

For example, when heated, green copper(II) carbonate decomposes into black copper(II) oxide and colourless carbon dioxide gas.

copper(II) carbonate → copper(II) oxide + carbon dioxide

Question

Nitrogen and hydrogen react together to form ammonia. Give the word equation for the reaction.