Subscript — Science definition
Defined in 3 courses:
- The small number written after an element's symbol, showing how many atoms of it are in one molecule. (Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy)
- A number giving atom counts within a formula. (Physical Science: Chemistry)
- The small number after an element's symbol showing how many atoms of that element are in one unit of the substance; changing it changes the substance itself. (Physical Science: Chemistry)
Where it is taught
- Balancing Chemical Equations — Chemistry, Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy, Grade 8
- Chemical Names, Formulas & Polyatomic Ions — Bonding, Formulas & Molecular Structure, Physical Science: Chemistry, Grade 11
- Balancing Chemical Equations — Reactions, Moles & Composition, Physical Science: Chemistry, Grade 11
In use
A subscript tells you how many atoms are inside one molecule, so changing it changes the substance itself: H₂O is water, but H₂O₂ is hydrogen peroxide, a completely different chemical you'd never want in your drinking glass.
Balancing Chemical Equations
Changing a subscript changes substance identity; changing a coefficient changes amount.
Chemical Names, Formulas & Polyatomic Ions
A subscript is part of a substance's identity: H₂O is water, but H₂O₂ is hydrogen peroxide, a bleach you would never drink.
Balancing Chemical Equations
Taught alongside
- chemical equation
- coefficient
- balanced equation
- model
- evidence
- system boundary
- assumption
- polyatomic ion
- Roman numeral
- law of conservation of mass