Atomic orbitals, sub-orbitals and electron configurations
At GCSE we learnt that electrons are arranged in shells or energy levels around a central nucleus – the first
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Author: Sarah Parkes
Wavefunctions, quantum numbers and the atomic orbital
Wavefunctions and quantum numbers are the foundations of our current understanding of atomic structure, but this is advanced stuff, so
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Developing a classical model of the atom
We are all familiar with the ‘solar system’ model of the atom that we used at GCSE to explain the
Why are ionic compounds soluble? (part 2)
For a full understanding of why ionic compounds are soluble we need to consider both the enthalpy and entropy changes
A quick note on solvents
This seems just the right moment to refresh your understanding of the different types off solvent so that you can
Why are ionic compounds soluble? (part 1)
Quick answer? It’s all about competing strengths of attraction between ions, between ions and water molecules, between water molecules themselves
Born-Haber cycles
Born-Haber cycles are simply a fancy Hess cycle transposed onto an energy level diagram and we can use them to
A note on the nature of ionic lattices
We are all familiar with the classic picture of an ionic lattice – for example, for a compound such as
What is Gibbs free energy?
The change in Gibbs free energy, ΔG, is a convenient way to determine whether a reaction is spontaneous or feasible
How to determine the temperature at which a reaction is feasible
A spontaneous or feasible process must be accompanied by a positive change in total entropy (entropy of the universe). Whether
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