Liquid in LaTeX (\text{(l)})

Where it is used

State symbol for a pure liquid, such as water or mercury, written after the chemical formula.

Combustion equations distinguish \text{H}_2\text{O(l)} from \text{H}_2\text{O(g)} because the enthalpy change differs by the heat of vaporization. Note the difference between (l), a pure liquid, and (aq), a solution in water. Upright text is especially important here: in some fonts an italic l looks like the digit 1 or a vertical bar, which can confuse readers. Using \text or \mathrm ensures a clear upright letter. Keep the symbol directly attached to the formula without extra spacing.

Minimal compilable example

Paste this into an empty .tex file and compile it with pdfLaTeX, XeLaTeX or LuaLaTeX.

\documentclass{article}
\usepackage{amsmath}
\begin{document}
Liquid: $\text{(l)}$

\[ \text{H}_2\text{O(l)} \to \text{H}_2\text{O(g)} \]
\end{document}

Related symbols

• Gas state symbol (g)\text{(g)}
• Solid\text{(s)}
• Aqueous\text{(aq)}
• Electrone^{-}
• Partial Charge\delta^{+}
• Triple Bond\text{C}\equiv\text{C}

Frequently asked questions

How do I write Liquid in LaTeX?

Type \text{(l)} in math mode, for example $\text{H}_2\text{O(l)} \to \text{H}_2\text{O(g)}$. Load amsmath first with \usepackage{amsmath}.

Which package do I need for \text{(l)}?

\text{(l)} needs amsmath: add \usepackage{amsmath} to your preamble before the document starts.

Can I use \text{(l)} in text mode, or only in math mode?

Both. \text{(l)} compiles in running text as well as inside $...$; in a formula keep it in math mode so it gets math fonts and spacing.