Skip to notes
9476 / 2027
The Mole Concept and Stoichiometry

Chapter summary

The Mole Concept and Stoichiometry, at a glance

Turn masses, gas volumes and solution measurements into amounts, then let a balanced equation connect them.

A-Level 9476 (2026-2027)

Quick revision

Revisit the essentials, then return to an explanation when you need it.

Exam definitions: learn these in mark-scheme words
TermDefinition to write
Relative atomic mass, ArThe weighted average mass of one atom of an element, relative to 1/12 of the mass of one atom of carbon-12.
Relative isotopic massThe mass of one atom of a particular isotope, relative to 1/12 of the mass of one atom of carbon-12.
Relative molecular mass, MrThe weighted average mass of one molecule of a substance, relative to 1/12 of the mass of one atom of carbon-12. Use relative formula mass for an ionic compound.
MoleThe amount of substance that contains 6.02 × 1023 elementary particles (the Avogadro constant, L).
A reliable calculation route
  1. Identify what was actually measured

    Mass, dry gas, a titre, an aliquot or a loss on heating; write units.

  2. Convert to moles and apply the equation

    Check the limiting reagent, coefficients, atom balance and charge balance.

  3. Return to the requested quantity

    Account for dilution, unreacted excess and significant figures; check whether the result is physically plausible.

Formula from mass: divide by atomic molar masses. Combustion: n(C) = n(CO2), n(H) = 2n(H2O). A gas-volume ratio equals a mole ratio only at matching temperature and pressure. An aliquot changes amount, not the concentration of the solution it came from.

Quick recall

Card 1 of 7. Answer in your head, then check.

Define relative atomic mass.

Revisit an explanation

Read the full chapter