I don't actually have problems, but I have a test over stoichiometry tomorrow, which is pretty much going to determine my semester grade.
I was just wondering if anyone knew any helpful tips, hints, or just an easier way to explain the basics of stoichiometry to me, because it's not sticking for some reason.
Anything would be appreciated, thanks.
If you can explain what you didn't understand about the four step procedure I provided last night I shall be happy to help you through the rough part; otherwise, I will let someone else answer your question.
Well, that's the thing...I know it's asking for kind of the impossible, but I just need ponters. Like, I understand it when you have it right there typed out for me, and I study and study it, but when I try to work one myself, it just comes out wrong. Either I balance the equation wrong, misinterpret what the word problem is asking, or just skip steps....it's always something small that leads to my demise...or at least, my grade's demise.
I THINK what you are saying is that you understand the proces but you make errors which makes you get the wrong answer. The problem is one of small mistakes and the only way you can overcome that is to practice, practice, practice, AND check every step twice to make sure you haven't done something wrong. Balancing an equation wrong will cause it and you just must be careful in balancing them. Check it when you are finished, atom by atom, to make sure it actually balances. Look at the screen when you punch in numbers to the calculator to make sure you punched in the right numbers. I make that mistake a lot. Read and reread the problem to make sure you know what they want. I convert almost everything to mols before I start so I will have those numbers in front of me. And I have tried to train myself to think in terms of mols. Good luck. Bob Pursley is good about giving advice. Perhaps you could address a post to him and tell him what you have told me. Perhaps he will read this and chime in also. He is on now; I will ask him to do so.
Yes, converting everything to mols first would probably be helpful. Sometimes the equation isn't given to us on tests, which is difficult for me because I'm terrible at writing equations. For instance, knowing how certain things are writtn like ammonia. No idea. Also, things like iron(III)....really confuses me, and I get flustered so easily.
I understand that writing equations and figuring out the proper stoichiometry notation can be confusing and overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you with these challenges:
1. Memorize common polyatomic ions: Many compounds, like ammonia (NH3) and sulfate (SO4^2-), contain polyatomic ions. You can find a list of common polyatomic ions and their formulas in your textbook or online. Memorizing these will help you identify and correctly write the formulas for these compounds.
2. Understand Roman numerals for transition metals: Transition metals often need roman numerals to indicate their oxidation state in compound names. For example, iron(III) chloride (FeCl3) contains iron in the +3 oxidation state. Practice identifying the correct oxidation state and associating it with the appropriate roman numeral.
3. Practice balancing chemical equations: Balancing equations is crucial for stoichiometry problems. Work on balancing chemical equations regularly to build your skills. Start with simpler equations and gradually move on to more complex ones.
4. Break down word problems: When faced with a stoichiometry word problem, read it carefully and identify the relevant information. Determine what the problem is asking you to find and what quantities are given. Then, set up a balanced chemical equation and use stoichiometry to solve for the unknown.
5. Double-check your work: Carefully evaluate each step of your solution to catch any small mistakes. Make sure your units cancel out correctly and that you use the correct conversion factors. Re-check your calculations to ensure accuracy.
6. Practice with a variety of problems: The more problems you work through, the more comfortable and familiar you will become with stoichiometry. Look for practice problems in your textbook or online resources. You can also create your own problems based on the concepts you struggle with the most.
Remember, stoichiometry takes practice and patience. Don't get discouraged by small errors; they happen to everyone. By focusing on understanding the concepts and practicing regularly, you'll improve your proficiency over time. Good luck with your test!