- A representation of a chemical reaction→ must be balanced!
○ On AP exam, if coefficients are given can assume that the equation is balanced
- Balanced Formula/molecular equation: show all species participating in reaction
○ These equations indicate that mass is conserved
○ Ex: 
- Complete ionic equation: strong electrolytes are ions
○ Remember: all ionic compounds (salts) and strong acids/bases are strong electrolytes
○ Ex: 
○ Keep liquids (H2O (l)), solids, and gases together
- Net ionic equation: Spectator ions are not included
○ Used to represent only the substance undergoing a chemical change
- Spectator ions: ions that do not participate directly in the reaction; are on both sides
○ Ions that participate react to form a solid
- A dissolution equation will show show a solid substance forming aqueous ions
○ Ex: 
(AB → A + B)