Chemical Formulae
Remembering of chemical formulae can be simplified very greatly by reducing the formulae to an idea using the initialing plan; for example, the formula for Wood Alcohol is CH3OH. This formula in itself has no meaning, and is difficult to carry in mind. By using the initials you can easily make some ideas which will represent this formula and help you to remember it, as for example: CAT HAD ham ON HAND. In this formula the C of Cat stands for Carbon, the H of Had for Hydrogen; Ham being a Code Word for 3 is indicative of 3 atoms of Hydrogen, and the O. H. is represented by the O and H of On Hand.
The formula for Glycerine is C3H5(OH)3, and can be remembered by the following idea: COME HEEL O HAM. In this example notice that the first letter of the word initials the substance and the last letter the number of atoms by the number code. As COME: C for Carbon, and M for 3. HEEL: H for Hydrogen, and L for 5. O for Oxygen. HAM: H for Hydrogen, and M for radicle 3 times. Use whichever method suits you best.
The formula for Carbolic Acid, C6H5OH, or CASH HAUL O, HAY. The formula for Benzine, C6H6, or CASH HASH.