Chapter U1.6, Problem 4E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The difference between $\text{NaOH}\left(s\right)$ and $\text{NaOH}\left(aq\right)$ needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Three states of matter are possible; solid, liquid and gases. These states of matter are different from each other in the intermolecular forces between particles and intermolecular distances.

Matter can further classified as pure substances and mixtures. A pure substance is composed of same types of atoms such as element. Elements can combine to form different molecules and compounds.

Answer to Problem 4E

$\text{NaOH}\left(s\right)$ represents the solid NaOH in which the particles are very close to each other with least intermolecular distance. Whereas $\text{NaOH}\left(aq\right)$ represents the aqueous solution of NaOH in which the ions; Na + and OH - are present in the solution.

Explanation of Solution

The chemical symbols are one or two letter expressions for each element. Since the compounds and molecules are combinations of elements therefore their symbols must be combination of chemical symbols of elements.

The physical state of compounds makes them different from each other. Here $\text{NaOH}\left(s\right)$ represents the solid NaOH with least intermolecular distance. Whereas $\text{NaOH}\left(aq\right)$ represents the aqueous solution of NaOH in which the ions; Na + and OH - are present in the solution. Thus, the physical state of the substance is always written next to the chemical symbol of the compound.

Conclusion

$\text{NaOH}\left(s\right)$ represents the solid NaOH in which the particles are close to each other with least intermolecular distance. Whereas $\text{NaOH}\left(aq\right)$ represents the aqueous solution of NaOH in which the ions; Na + and OH - are present in the solution.