Yale University
Sterling Chemistry Library

Chemical Nomenclature


Guides to Chemical Nomenclature

Chemical substances can appear under a variety of names in the sources you will be using. Listed below are strategies for chemical name searching, followed by selected sources in which they can be applied.

Common Names Indexes

You will often start with a popular or commercial name of a substance. When using these indexes, be prepared to try other synonyms to locate a particular substance.

Systematic Nomenclature

These systems establish standard names for substances, usually beginning with the constituent element of a compound.

Molecular Formula Indexes

If you already have a molecular formula, it will provide a cross Reference to systematic or preferred names in many indices. Remember to convert your MF to Hill order.


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Updated: January 13, 1999
Maintained by Jennifer Kostelnik