Chapter 7, Problem 7A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The meaning of notation $\left(s\right)$ in a chemical reaction after substance’s formula should be determined.

Concept Introduction: The symbols are used in a chemical reaction for every substance involved which represents the physical states of the reactants and products in a reaction.

Answer to Problem 7A

The notation $\left(s\right)$ after a substance’s formula indicates it exists in the solid state.

Explanation of Solution

The physical state of the reactants and products are shown by writing the symbols after each reactant and product in the reaction. The symbol “ $l$ ” represents liquid, “ $aq$ ” represents aqueous (dissolved in water), “ $s$ ” represents solid, and “ $g$ ” represents gas.

Thus, the notation $\left(s\right)$ after a substance’s formula indicates it exists in the solid state.