Salt Wars: A Card Game To Learn Inorganic Chemistry Nomenclature

Learning chemistry requires students to integrate macroscopic observations, submicroscopic models, and symbolic representations. However, connecting these representations remains a major challenge, particularly in inorganic chemistry, where the nomenclature of compounds presents persistent difficulties. The coexistence of systematic, Stock, and traditional naming systems leads to inconsistencies and confusion, even for simple compounds such as CO2, H2SO4, and Ni(OH)2. As a result, many students rely on rote memorization, diminishing engagement, and retention. To address this challenge, we developed Salt Wars, an educational card game designed to strengthen students’ mastery of inorganic nomenclature. The game requires players to combine cations and anions to form valid compounds and name them using different nomenclature systems. This activity fosters the recognition of chemical patterns, promotes logical reasoning, and encourages collaborative and competitive learning in a relaxed environment. Salt Wars was implemented with 92 first-year undergraduate students at the Facultad de Quı́mica, UNAM. Participants completed a standardized nomenclature test and a perception survey before and after gameplay. Results showed a statistically significant improvement in students’ ability to name inorganic compounds, as well as positive attitudes toward the game’s educational value and enjoyment.