[Big-Daddy]

When writing out chemical equations, the symbol (aq) is used to denote
something in an aqueous solution.  What symbol or symbols are used for things
that are in solutions with solvents other than water?

[Borek]

The only standard symbols are listed here: IUPAC Green Book, General Chemistry section, Other symbols and conventions in chemistry (2.10.1), (vi) States of aggregation.

[Big-Daddy]

The only standard symbols are listed here: IUPAC Green Book, General Chemistry section, Other symbols and conventions in chemistry (2.10.1), (vi) States of aggregation.

Thanks. It appears there aren't any standard symbols for solvents other than water, so I suppose we'd have to write the reaction and then write beneath it what the solvent is.

One more question: on page 52, 'Equations for Chemical Reactions', the difference is raised between a "backward and forward reaction" (e.g. A B+C and B+C A ocurring in the same system). What, precisely, is the difference between this and an equilibrium? Do we have to treat the former as two different reactions, whereas the equilibrium is one reaction going both forward and in reverse?

[Borek]

One more question: on page 52, 'Equations for Chemical Reactions', the difference is raised between a "backward and forward reaction" (e.g. A B+C and B+C A ocurring in the same system).

I don't see anything like that on page 52.

[Big-Daddy]

I don't see anything like that on page 52.

Section 2.10.1, (iv) - "Equations for chemical reactions"
Part B, in the distinguishing between the "reaction, both directions" symbol and the "equilibrium" symbol.

It's labelled page 52 on the bottom of the page as far as I can see.

[Borek]

So the difference is not between "backward and forward reaction" as you wrote, but between "reaction, both directions" and "equilibrium". Sigh.

Not sure what the difference is and I would not bother too much, as most of the chemical community is not aware of these minute details.

I am attaching part of the text, perhaps someone will have something to add.

[curiouscat]

Only place I can see this distinction being useful is in a set of reactions where the  symbol might be used to point out that a certain step is actually at equilibrium.

The other symbol would then  mean both directions work but that step isn't at equilibrium.

[Big-Daddy]

Ok, thanks for the help.