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30 Nov 2025

556

2 pages

Understanding the Amount of Substance in Chemistry

user profile picture

YoYo A @yoyo1234

Quantitative chemistry might sound intimidating, but it's basically just using maths to understand chemical reactions - and you've... Show more

# A-Level Chemistry - Quantitative Chemistry (Moles)

Assumed knowledge from GCSE
- To recall the formulae of molecules.
- To be able to wor

Mastering Moles and Percentage Calculations

Ever wondered how chemists measure invisible atoms? That's where moles come in - think of them as chemistry's counting unit. One mole contains 6.023 × 10²³ particles (that's Avogadro's constant), which is absolutely massive but helps us work with atomic-scale quantities.

The key equation you'll use constantly is Number of moles = mass ÷ relative formula mass (RFM). This simple formula connects the mass you can measure to the number of particles you're working with.

Percentage composition calculations help you work out what fraction of a compound is made up of each element. For example, in copper(II) oxide (CuO), copper makes up 80% of the total mass - useful for working out purity or yields in reactions.

Top Tip Always double-check your RFM calculations using the periodic table - small errors here will mess up all your subsequent answers!

# A-Level Chemistry - Quantitative Chemistry (Moles)

Assumed knowledge from GCSE
- To recall the formulae of molecules.
- To be able to wor

Gas Volumes and Ionic Equations

Gas calculations become much easier when you remember that one mole of any gas occupies 24 dm³ (or 24,000 cm³) at room temperature and pressure. This means you can quickly convert between moles, mass, and volume for gases using the standard equations.

Whether you're calculating the volume of 2g of ethane or finding the mass of 325 cm³ of carbon dioxide, it's all about connecting the three key values moles, mass, and volume. Work out what you know, what you need, and which equation bridges the gap.

Ionic equations strip away the unnecessary bits to show what's actually happening in a reaction. Spectator ions (the ones that don't actually react) get removed, leaving you with the essential chemical change. For instance, when mixing solutions, focus on which ions actually form precipitates or react together.

Remember Definitions pop up constantly in exams - make sure you can explain what atoms, elements, compounds, molecules, and moles actually are in clear, precise terms.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

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Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

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Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Chemistry

556

30 Nov 2025

2 pages

Understanding the Amount of Substance in Chemistry

user profile picture

YoYo A

@yoyo1234

Quantitative chemistry might sound intimidating, but it's basically just using maths to understand chemical reactions - and you've already got the basics from GCSE! This topic focuses on moles, which are chemistry's way of counting atoms and molecules, plus... Show more

# A-Level Chemistry - Quantitative Chemistry (Moles)

Assumed knowledge from GCSE
- To recall the formulae of molecules.
- To be able to wor

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Mastering Moles and Percentage Calculations

Ever wondered how chemists measure invisible atoms? That's where moles come in - think of them as chemistry's counting unit. One mole contains 6.023 × 10²³ particles (that's Avogadro's constant), which is absolutely massive but helps us work with atomic-scale quantities.

The key equation you'll use constantly is: Number of moles = mass ÷ relative formula mass (RFM). This simple formula connects the mass you can measure to the number of particles you're working with.

Percentage composition calculations help you work out what fraction of a compound is made up of each element. For example, in copper(II) oxide (CuO), copper makes up 80% of the total mass - useful for working out purity or yields in reactions.

Top Tip: Always double-check your RFM calculations using the periodic table - small errors here will mess up all your subsequent answers!

# A-Level Chemistry - Quantitative Chemistry (Moles)

Assumed knowledge from GCSE
- To recall the formulae of molecules.
- To be able to wor

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Gas Volumes and Ionic Equations

Gas calculations become much easier when you remember that one mole of any gas occupies 24 dm³ (or 24,000 cm³) at room temperature and pressure. This means you can quickly convert between moles, mass, and volume for gases using the standard equations.

Whether you're calculating the volume of 2g of ethane or finding the mass of 325 cm³ of carbon dioxide, it's all about connecting the three key values: moles, mass, and volume. Work out what you know, what you need, and which equation bridges the gap.

Ionic equations strip away the unnecessary bits to show what's actually happening in a reaction. Spectator ions (the ones that don't actually react) get removed, leaving you with the essential chemical change. For instance, when mixing solutions, focus on which ions actually form precipitates or react together.

Remember: Definitions pop up constantly in exams - make sure you can explain what atoms, elements, compounds, molecules, and moles actually are in clear, precise terms.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

4

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Understanding Mass Spectrometry

Explore the principles of mass spectrometry, including relative isotopic mass, relative atomic mass, and the process of molecular fragmentation. This summary covers key concepts such as the calculation of average atomic mass, the role of isotopes, and the interpretation of mass spectra. Ideal for students studying chemical analysis and isotopic abundance.

ChemistryChemistry
12

Mass Spectrometry Insights

Explore the principles of mass spectrometry, including molecular fragmentation, mass spectra interpretation, and relative abundance analysis. This summary provides essential insights for AQA A-Level organic chemistry, helping students understand how to deduce molecular structures and identify compounds through mass spectrometry techniques.

ChemistryChemistry
12

Mole Calculations & Concepts

Explore essential calculations and concepts related to moles in chemistry. This summary covers molar mass, concentration, ideal gas equations, empirical and molecular formulas, and the significance of atom economy in chemical processes. Ideal for A-Level Chemistry students seeking to master the topic of 'Amount of Substance'.

ChemistryChemistry
12

Mass Spectrometry & Isotopes

Explore the principles of mass spectrometry, including the calculation of relative atomic mass and the significance of isotopes. This summary covers key concepts such as isotopic mass, relative abundance, and the impact of vacuum conditions on ion behavior. Ideal for chemistry students preparing for exams.

ChemistryChemistry
12

Mole Calculations Explained

Dive into the essentials of mole calculations, including empirical and molecular formulas, molar mass, and relative formula mass. This summary provides clear explanations and examples to help you master the concepts of chemical formulas and their calculations. Ideal for students preparing for exams or needing a quick reference.

ChemistryChemistry
12

Chemistry Calculation Essentials

Explore key concepts in chemistry calculations, including relative atomic mass, moles, concentration, and molar mass. This summary provides essential formulas and methods for calculating percentage composition and average rates of reaction, tailored for students preparing for exams.

ChemistryChemistry
S4

Most popular content: Mole

Most popular content in Chemistry

Most popular content

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user