Physical Chemistry Concepts: Definitions and Applications

Nernst Distribution Law

The Nernst Distribution Law describes the equilibrium distribution of a solute between two immiscible liquid phases. It states that at a constant temperature, the ratio of the concentrations of the solute in the two liquids is constant, provided the solute has the same molecular form in both phases.

Limitations include deviations due to solute association or dissociation in one phase, and non-ideal behavior at higher concentrations. Modifications often involve using activities

Read More

Understanding Atomic Theory: Dalton to Nuclear Fusion

Understanding Atomic Theory

· Dalton’s Atomic Theory: Matter is composed of indivisible and indestructible particles called atoms. Each chemical element consists of identical atoms, distinct from those of other elements. Chemical compounds form through the union of atoms from different elements in fixed ratios.

· Chemical Element: A substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances, consisting of only one type of atom (refer to the Periodic Table).

· Compound: A substance that can be

Read More

Fire Extinguisher Types and Their Limitations

1. Limitations of Foam Extinguishers

  • In electrical fires, water content poses a risk to personnel due to conductivity, especially in manual applications. Automatic systems are more effective than water alone.
  • Incompatibility between some foams and powder extinguishers can cause foam breakdown when applied simultaneously, particularly with obstacles on the burning liquid’s surface.
  • Not suitable for pressurized gas fires (butane, propane, etc.) due to high evaporation and swelling.
  • Reacts with highly
Read More

Essential Vocabulary: Definitions and Synonyms

Vocabulary Definitions and Equivalents

Golden Age
Period of great cultural flourishing.
Anything but
Definitely not.
Discovery
Act of finding.
To sustain
To support.
To lay the foundation for
Set the conditions for something.
Daily
Every day.
Soap
A substance used for washing.
To stretch
Spread out, expand.
Border
Frontier line.
At the height of
At the most advanced or intense point.
Massive
Huge.
To fuel
Give energy to; encourage.
Growth
Increase in size.
From far and wide
From everywhere; from many different places.
Trade
Exchange
Read More

Confined Spaces: Hazards, Risks, and Safety Measures

Confined Spaces: Definition and Examples

A confined space is any space with limited openings for entry and exit, where an employee can fully enter. These spaces often have unfavorable natural ventilation, allowing pollutants to accumulate, creating toxic, flammable, or oxygen-deficient atmospheres. Confined spaces are not designed for continuous human occupancy.

NIOSH Definition of Confined Space

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) defines a confined space as any space

Read More

Key Chemistry Concepts and Formulas

Conversions

  • Celsius to Fahrenheit: F = (9/5) * C + 32
  • Celsius to Kelvin: K = C + 273

Atomic Structure

  • Atomic Mass: Protons + Neutrons (upper left symbol)
  • Atomic Number: Protons (bottom left symbol)

Constants

  • Planck’s Constant (h): 6.6260755 x 10-34 J*s

Photons

  • Energy of a Photon: E = hv or E = hc / wavelength

Electronic Transitions

  • Absorption: When energy is absorbed by the hydrogen atom, the electron is excited to a higher energy level or orbital.
  • Emission: When the electron relaxes from a higher energy orbital
Read More