Is 1 AMU Equal to the Mass of a Proton or Neutron? Key Facts and Differences Explained
Isn’t 1 amu the Same as the Mass of a Proton or Neutron? One atomic mass unit (amu), currently called the unified atomic mass unit (u), is not exactly the...
How a Larger Nucleus Results in a Smaller Atomic Radius
Understanding the Relationship Between Nucleus Size and Atomic Radius The atomic radius becomes smaller when the nucleus is bigger due to the increased positive charge from more protons. This stronger...
Why Is 2H2 + O2 = 2H2O Instead of 2H2O2? Explanation for Beginners
ELI5: Why Is the Reaction Written as 2H2 + O2 = 2H2O and Not 2H2O2? The reaction 2H2 + O2 = 2H2O represents the formation of water, not hydrogen peroxide,...
How We Confirm Water’s Composition of Two Hydrogen Atoms and One Oxygen Atom
How Do We Know Water Always Has 2 Hydrogen and 1 Oxygen Atom? Water is defined chemically as H2O, meaning each molecule contains two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom....
Understanding Phase Equilibrium and Evaporation Through Phase Diagrams
Understanding Phase Equilibrium and Evaporation in Relation to Phase Diagrams Phase equilibrium occurs only on the liquid-vapour equilibrium line of a phase diagram, where both liquid and vapour phases coexist....
Understanding the Mystery of the “p” in pH: Origins, Meanings, and Misconceptions
What Does the “p” in pH Mean? The “p” in pH stands for the negative logarithm (−log) of the hydrogen ion concentration. This meaning extends to related notations such as...
Is Borax a Safe and Effective Pesticide for Controlling Ants?
Is Borax Safe to Use as a Pesticide? Borax is generally safe to use as a pesticide when applied properly and in moderate amounts. It has been widely used for...
Reduce Chloramine Effects in Swimming Pools with Simple Solutions
An Easy Way to Reduce the Effects of Being in a Chloramine-Rich Pool Environment The most effective way to reduce the effects of chloramines in a pool area is to...
A Question About Sulphur and Mercury: Their Reactions, Historical Context, and Unique Applications
A Question About Sulphur and Mercury Sulphur and mercury react primarily to form mercury sulfide, an important compound with historical and chemical significance. Mercury sulfide exists mainly as cinnabar and...
Is “Mole” a Shortened Form of “Molecule”? Understanding the Confusion in Science
Is “Mole” a Shortening of “Molecule”? The term mole is not simply a shortening of the word molecule. The mole is an SI unit representing a quantity of substance, defined...