ChemLab
ChemLab — Virtual Chemistry Lab in Your Browser
A free browser-based virtual chemistry lab. Run classic middle-school and college inorganic beaker experiments: add reagents to a beaker and watch gas bubbles, precipitates, and color changes — with a built-in compound database. No install, no sign-up.
Virtual chemistry lab — beaker experiments & compound database
Key features
18 curated experiments: gas preparation, displacement, neutralization, ion tests
Real-time beaker simulation: bubbles, precipitates, color changes & heat
Built-in compound database — compound info, structure images and formulas
Free mixing mode to explore any reagent combination
How it works
From opening ChemLab to getting results in three steps.
- 1
Pick an experiment
Choose from 18 curated classic experiments — or enter free mixing mode to combine any reagents you like.
- 2
Add reagents
Add reagents to the beaker and watch gas bubbles, precipitates, color changes, and heating appear in real time.
- 3
Observe & learn
Read the balanced equation behind every reaction and look up compounds in the built-in database with formulas and molar masses.
Who is it for?
Three typical ways people put ChemLab to work.
Chemistry teachers
Demonstrate experiments safely in class — no lab prep, no chemicals, no cleanup. Perfect for previewing or reviewing a practical.
Students
Rehearse experiments before lab class, see what should happen, and explore "what if I mix this?" freely without risk.
Self-learners
Explore classic reactions without any lab equipment — a zero-cost, zero-risk way to build chemical intuition.
Everything you can do
18 curated experiments
Gas preparation, displacement reactions, acid-base neutralization, ion tests, and more — each with guided steps.
Real-time beaker simulation
Bubbles, precipitates, color changes, and heat rendered live as you add reagents.
Compound database
Real formulas, molar masses, structure images, and properties sourced from PubChem.
Accurate stoichiometry
Reactions follow balanced equations with limiting-reagent logic, so quantities behave like the real thing.
Free mixing mode
Combine any reagents and discover what reacts — a sandbox for curiosity-driven exploration.
Safe & zero-cost
No chemicals, no glassware, no fume hood — the same classic reactions with none of the hazards.
Why a browser-based tool?
How ChemLab compares with desktop software and registration-based online platforms.
| Aspect | ChemLab | Desktop software | Online platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free forever | Paid license | Subscription |
| Installation | None — runs in the browser | Download & install | None — runs in the browser |
| Account | No account required | License activation | Registration required |
| Data privacy | Stays on your device | Stored locally | Uploaded to cloud servers |
| Platform | Any device with a browser | Tied to one OS | Any device with a browser |
| Updates | Always up to date | Manual updates | Always up to date |
Frequently asked questions
- What kind of experiments can I run in ChemLab?
- ChemLab covers classic middle-school and college inorganic beaker experiments — gas preparation, displacement reactions, acid-base neutralization, and ion tests, with real-time bubbles, precipitates, and color changes.
- Does ChemLab calculate the chemistry correctly?
- Yes. Reactions follow balanced equations with limiting-reagent stoichiometry, and the built-in compound database provides real formulas, molar masses, and properties from PubChem.
- Is ChemLab safe for classroom use?
- Yes. ChemLab is a full simulation — there are no real chemicals, flames, or fumes, so it is safe on any classroom device, including shared computers and tablets.
- Can I mix any reagents I want?
- Yes. Free mixing mode lets you add any combination of reagents to the beaker. If a known reaction exists, you will see it happen — with the balanced equation shown.
- What level of chemistry does ChemLab cover?
- It focuses on classic middle-school and introductory college inorganic chemistry: gas preparation, displacement, neutralization, and ion identification — the experiments most commonly taught and examined.
- Does ChemLab replace a real lab?
- It is best used as a companion: preview an experiment before class, rehearse the procedure, and review what happened afterward. The simulation shows the chemistry; the real lab teaches the hands-on skills.
Ready to explore ChemLab?
Launch ChemLab right now in your browser — free, no sign-up required. Your data stays on your device.