Chemistry Calculation Essentials
The mole is your central conversion unit in chemistry. Convert between mass and moles using Mr (molar mass) with the formula: moles = mass ÷ Mr. This connects the microscopic world of atoms to measurable quantities in the lab. Remember that one mole contains exactly 6.02×10²³ particles (Avogadro's constant).
Working with solutions? Use moles = concentration × volume to find substance amounts. For gases at room temperature and pressure (RTP), the relationship becomes even simpler: moles = volume ÷ 24, as one mole of any gas occupies 24 dm³ at RTP. For more precise gas calculations, use the ideal gas equation: PV = nRT.
Quick Tip: When converting units, remember that 1000 cm³ = 1 dm³, and temperature in Kelvin = °C + 273. These conversions are essential for accurate calculations!
Evaluate reaction efficiency using percentage yield: (actual yield ÷ theoretical yield) × 100%. For environmental considerations, calculate atom economy to determine how efficiently atoms are used: (Mr × moles of desired product ÷ sum of (Mr × moles) of all products) × 100%. Understanding these metrics helps assess how sustainable a chemical process truly is.