When to use what units

Moderators: Chem_Mod, Chem_Admin

Kyle Thorin
Posts: 50
Joined: Sat Aug 24, 2019 12:16 am

When to use what units

Postby Kyle Thorin » Thu Oct 03, 2019 10:06 pm

Is it okay if I use mL or mmol to find molarity/volume/moles, or do I have to convert those values to liters and moles?

charleejohnson1L
Posts: 99
Joined: Fri Aug 30, 2019 12:17 am

Re: When to use what units

Postby charleejohnson1L » Thu Oct 03, 2019 10:09 pm

When calculating molarity, you should convert it into the units given in the standard equation (moles and liters). From experience though, if you have a method to keeping track of your units, just go for it. Either way, you're still calculating the concentration of a solute in a solution. :)

katrinawong3d
Posts: 40
Joined: Sat Aug 17, 2019 12:17 am

Re: When to use what units

Postby katrinawong3d » Thu Oct 03, 2019 10:11 pm

For calculations to find molarity, you have to use liters and moles.

Eunice Nguyen 4I
Posts: 100
Joined: Sat Aug 17, 2019 12:17 am

Re: When to use what units

Postby Eunice Nguyen 4I » Thu Oct 03, 2019 10:13 pm

It's normally easier and more efficient to convert the numbers to moles and liters, but if you just make sure the end result is in the right units, it should be fine.

Anna Chen 1K
Posts: 104
Joined: Thu Jul 25, 2019 12:18 am

Re: When to use what units

Postby Anna Chen 1K » Thu Oct 03, 2019 11:29 pm

You should convert to moles and liters, as those are the standard units.

Amir Bayat
Posts: 115
Joined: Sat Sep 07, 2019 12:16 am

Re: When to use what units

Postby Amir Bayat » Thu Oct 03, 2019 11:31 pm

Converting to moles and liters are appropriate during calculations as conversion factors are easier that way along with formula applications. However, when giving the answer, it is best to try to keep the answer in the same number of significant figures or same format as the numbers are given to you.

For instance when given in mL, convert to L for calculations and then at the end box your answer in mL just to be safe.

However, I am not sure if Professor Lavelle is strict on this rule or not.


Return to “SI Units, Unit Conversions”

Who is online

Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 6 guests