Chemistry Mnemonics

Chemistry Mnemonics: Simplify Complex Concepts with Memory Aids

B

Benzene ring: order of substituents: “Benzene likes to ROMP”

• From R group moving around the ring:
• R group
• Ortho
• Meta
• Para
  • Author: Sabra and Josh Kunken Undergrad, Univ. of Calif, Berkeley (http://medicalmnemonics.com/)

C

Cation vs. anion: positive vs. negative

• The t in cation looks like a plus sign: “ca+ion”.
• Cation is positive, anion is negative.
  • Author: Ken Evans Saskatchewan Health, Acute and Emergency Services (http://medicalmnemonics.com/)

Cis/trans (geometric) isomer nomenclature: “Zame Zide. Epposite.”

• Z is the 2 functional groups on the same side of double bond.
• E is for opposite sides.
  • Reference: http://medicalmnemonics.com/

Cis/trans (geometric) isomers: arrangement of functional groups

• Cis starts with a C and the functional groups form a C.
• Trans, therefore is the other one by default.
  • • Author: Spencer Oates (http://medicalmnemonics.com/)

G

Gibb’s free energy formula: “Zame Zide. Epposite.”

• Z is the 2 functional groups on the same side of double bond.
• E is for opposite sides.
  • Reference: http://medicalmnemonics.com/

Gibb’s free energy formula: “Good Honey Tastes Sweet”

• (delta)G = H – T(delta)S
  • Author: Ken Evans Saskatchewan Health, Acute and Emergency Services (http://medicalmnemonics.com/)

O

Oxidation vs. reduction: electrochemical cell and electron gain/loss: AN OIL RIG CAT

• At the ANode, Oxidation Involves Loss of electrons.
• Reduction Involves Gaining electrons at the CAThode
  • Author: Susan Monash (Peninsula) Undergrad (http://medicalmnemonics.com/)