2.2.3 State Symbols

There are four state symbols:

• (s): Solid – This includes most metals (except mercury) and compounds that do not dissolve in water, like silver chloride.
• (l): Liquid – This includes liquids like water and ethanol, as well as molten (melted) ionic compounds.

• (aq): Aqueous – This means the substance is dissolved in water, like saltwater (sodium chloride dissolved in water).
• (g): Gas – This includes gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and noble gases (e.g., helium, neon).