Question

Is there a difference between the following? [NH3][HCl] and [NH3]+[HCl] if so why? if not, prove there are no exceptions

What mathematical operation is represented by each of the following? [NH3][HCl] and [NH3]+[HCl]

Answer 1

Solution:

Yes, there is a major difference between [NH3] [HCl] and [NH3] + [HCl].

For example: if [NH3] = 1 M and HCl = 1 M

Then,

Expression [NH3] [HCl] = 1 M x 1M =  1 M

Expression [NH3] + [HCl] = 1 M + 1 M = 2 M

The expression [NH3] [HCl] is the multiplication of concentrations of NH3 and HCl, while expression [NH3]+ [HCl] is the addition of concentrations of NH3 and HCl.