Chemical Symbol - GCSE Chemistry Definition

A chemical symbol is a shorthand notation used to represent an element on the periodic table, consisting of one or two letters derived from its English or Latin name.

For example,:

• The symbol for hydrogen is "H",

• "Na" stands for sodium, from its Latin name 'Natrium'

Chemical symbols are universally recognised, allowing scientists to communicate efficiently and accurately about elements and compounds worldwide. Understanding chemical symbols is crucial for students studying GCSE Chemistry, as they form the basis for writing chemical equations and understanding the properties and interactions of different elements.