Question

How to I.D major species and minor species in chemistry?

Answer 1

The term species in chemistry is related to the ions and molecules. The major ad minor species of the various molecules are dicussed as below:

In aqueous solutions the species are generally classified as major (available in high concentrations) and minor species. (available in low concentrations). The equilibrium of the system is determined by the major species. In aqueous solutions in general the major species are solutes and water. For example , consider a solution of potassium chloride where the major species are K⁺, Cl^-, H₂O. When HCl dissolve in water the major species are hydronium ions, Cl ions , H₂O. When glucose is dissolved in water major species will be C₆H₁₂O₆ and water olecules because in water it dissolves without reacting.