“Necessity is the mother of invention” – whenever we encounter difficult lessons, especially in Chemistry, we understand this proverb even more deeply. Chemistry is inherently a subject that requires logical thinking combined with memorization skills, in which remembering the names and properties of substances is extremely important. So, how can we memorize chemical substances effectively and for the long term? Let’s explore interesting tips with HỌC LÀM below!
1. Utilize the Image Association Method
“A picture is worth a thousand words” – this saying is absolutely true when applied to learning chemical substances. This is because our brains often remember images better than written words.
1.1. “Word – Image” Method:
- Choose an image or symbol that is characteristic of the name of the substance. For example, the substance
H2O(water) can be associated with the image of a clear water droplet. - Combine the image with the name and chemical formula of the substance.
- Regularly review the image and name of the substance.
Note: This method is suitable for those with good visual memory.
1.2. “Story” Method:
- Create a story related to the name and properties of the substance. For example, you can imagine
NaCl(table salt) as a friend who is always “connected” to water. - The more vivid the story, the easier it is to remember.
Note: This method is suitable for those with good logical memory.
2. Use the Linking Technique
“The longer the pearl string, the more precious it is” – combining substances with similar characteristics or relationships into a chain will help you remember them longer.
2.1. Linking by Substance Group:
- Combine substances of the same functional group or with similar properties. For example, the carboxylic acid group such as
CH3COOH(acetic acid),C2H5COOH(propionic acid)… can be linked together by imagining them as close friends. - Remember to use key keywords to recall the connection between substances.
2.2. Linking by Chemical Reactions:
- Combine the reactants and products of a chemical reaction together. For example, the neutralization reaction between an acid and a base can be linked by imagining them “dissolving” into each other.
- Utilize chemical equations to memorize the relationship between substances.
3. Utilize Flashcards
“As you sow, so shall you reap” – if you diligently memorize flashcards, you will surely reap high scores in tests.
3.1. Create Flashcards by Substance Group:
- Write the name, chemical formula, and properties of the substance on a flashcard.
- Arrange the flashcards by substance group or by chemical reaction.
3.2. Use Flashcards for Review:
- Use flashcards to review the substances you have learned.
- Randomly pick flashcards and guess what the substance is.
4. Apply Summarization Techniques
“Neat and beautiful” – summarizing the main content of the lesson is an effective way to memorize chemical substances.
4.1. Table Summary:
- Create a table listing the name, chemical formula, and properties of substances.
- Use different colors to distinguish substance groups.
4.2. Mind Map Summary:
- Create a mind map linking substances together by chemical reactions or by substance group.
- Use images and symbols to make the mind map more vivid.
5. Practice Regularly
“Practice makes perfect” – regular practice is the most important secret to memorizing chemical substances.
5.1. Solve Exercises:
- Solve many chemistry exercises to practice memorizing chemical formulas and properties of substances.
- Refer to exercises in textbooks, workbooks, or online.
5.2. Take Tests:
- Take tests to assess your memorization ability.
- Ask friends or teachers to check your work.
6. Advice From Experts:
“Learning from friends is better than learning from a teacher” – according to Prof. Dr. Nguyen Van A, a professor of chemistry at Hanoi University of Science and Technology, “The most important secret to studying chemistry well is to love the subject. Find joy in learning, and you will find this subject easier and more attractive.”
Note:
- The method of memorizing chemical substances is not a secret at all, you just need to be diligent and have a method to succeed.
- Find a memorization method that suits you.
- Always keep a cheerful and positive mood when studying.
Conclusion:
“Diligence can compensate for lack of intelligence” – make efforts to study and practice regularly to memorize chemical substances most effectively.
In addition, you can refer to more how to memorize chemical properties or how to memorize and recognize substances to improve your learning effectiveness.
