basics
What Is Matter in Chemistry?In chemistry, matter is anything with mass that takes up space. See what counts, what does not, and how elements, compounds and mixtures differ.
Anion vs Cation: What’s the Difference?A cation is a positively charged ion formed by losing electrons; an anion is negatively charged and forms by gaining them. Compare charges, examples and uses.
What Is Solubility in Chemistry?Solubility is the maximum amount of a solute that dissolves in a given amount of solvent at a stated temperature. Learn saturation, temperature effects and examples.
What Does Aqueous Mean in Chemistry?Aqueous means dissolved in water, written (aq) in equations. Learn the state symbols, how ions dissociate, and why liquid water is (l) and not (aq).
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.
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.