Aktiv FAQs
Aktiv Chemistry = The future of active learning.
Support your chemistry class with Aktiv’s digital platform featuring interactive chemistry homework, active learning tools, and seamless OpenStax integration.
February 13, 2026. Aktiv Team.
Get to know Aktiv Chemistry
1
What is Aktiv Chemistry?
Aktiv Chemistry is a chemistry-specific digital learning platform designed to transform the chemistry class experience. It features extensive problem libraries that support all topics found in a general chemistry, organic chemistry and GOB chemistry curriculum. This chemistry homework platform also includes active learning tools and scaffolded exercises that help students visualize abstract concepts such as Lewis structures.
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Who uses Aktiv Chemistry?
Adopted at hundreds of campuses, the platform is used in both small and large class settings primarily for lecture and discussion. Educators who teach first-year chemistry, organic chemistry and biochemistry use Aktiv to increase engagement during class, scaffold learning with interactive problems on chemistry homework and protect academic integrity on quizzes and tests. The platform is also a recommended option for teaching specific skills, such as how to draw Lewis structures and mastering conversions in chemistry.
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What chemistry course areas does Aktiv Chemistry support?
Aktiv provides comprehensive support for chemistry classes including:
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How does Aktiv compare to other chemistry homework and assessment platforms?
Unlike many publisher systems built for multiple disciplines, Aktiv was designed specifically for chemistry. It’s text-agnostic, so instructors can keep using their preferred textbook while giving students a more supportive homework experience at an affordable price.
Aktiv’s mobile-first design allows students to complete all work from any device, supporting those without laptop access and enabling in-class participation. A major differentiator is Aktiv’s interactive problem types, such as the drawing Lewis structures module and dimensional analysis problems. These questions scaffold learning, help students visualize concepts, and provide a more engaging experience than standard multiple choice platforms.
Instructors also use Aktiv for in-class engagement, secure testing, and homework—all within a simple interface that includes a frustration-reducing chemical drawing system—at $45 per term.
Build Your Chemistry Curriculum
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How do instructors use Aktiv Chemistry for homework, in-class activities, quizzes and assessments?
Instructors can use Aktiv to assign in class polls and think-pair-share activities, homework assignments including interactive problems, practice sets and quizzes or tests. All of these assignment types leverage various question formats and built-in scaffolding to guide students through complex chemistry concepts. Aktiv provides instant feedback, allowing students to learn from mistakes in real time.
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How can students draw Lewis structures in Aktiv Chemistry?
Students draw Lewis structures in Aktiv Chemistry using an interactive, mobile-first tool designed to eliminate the technical frustration often found in traditional drawing software. Instead of clunky menus, students use intuitive side dials to add bonds, toggle bond types and distribute electrons, while a “Change Elements” icon provides quick access to the periodic table for selecting central atoms.
This interface is identical across all devices, ensuring that the drawing process doesn’t get in the way of learning core concepts like VSEPR geometry, polarity and hybridization. As students construct the molecule, Aktiv provides immediate, targeted feedback to help them correct bonding errors, redistribute electrons and evaluate formal charges. This guides the student to retry and correct their own errors, reinforcing a deeper understanding of formal charges and molecular structure through visual animations and real-time guidance.
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How does Aktiv Chemistry support active learning and flipped chemistry classrooms?
Aktiv is a leader in active learning, offering tools like real-time polling and concept checks to keep students engaged. Features like “Think-Pair-Share” activities and in-class histograms allow chemistry teachers to visualize class performance instantly and address misconceptions on the fly.
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Can I create my own questions and activities in Aktiv Chemistry?
Yes. We understand that many professors require customizable problem sets to fit their specific chemistry curriculum. Aktiv’s flexible authoring tool allows educators to create and assign unique multiple choice, numeric entry and free response questions alongside pre-made content.
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What types of chemical problem solving are supported?
Aktiv supports all units and topics in traditional General Chemistry, Introductory Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and GOB chemistry courses. These questions include Lewis structure practice problems, dimensional analysis, chemical equations, electron configuration, equilibrium, stoichiometry and nomenclature. Aktiv also supports ICE tables, BCA tables, diagrams, graphing, structure drawing, interpreting and addition of arrows, organic conformations, synthesis, numeric entry, multiple choice, free response and labeling questions.
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How does Aktiv Chemistry handle chemical drawing and structure representation?
AktivGrid is the intuitive, patented drawing tool designed to take the frustration out of learning and grading chemical structures. Students simply tap or click grid lines to activate a bond, then add chemical components. Available on any device, this “game-like” system ensures students focus on learning their chemistry curriculum rather than struggling with the software. Structure drawing questions now support keyboard navigation and screen reader compatibility for improved accessibility.
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How does Aktiv Chemistry prepare students for success in chemistry?
Aktiv’s Readiness module prepares students for chemistry classes using diagnostic assessments to identify gaps in chemistry math and chemistry concepts. It delivers personalized study plans to help students master prerequisites required for the chemistry curriculum, including conversions and dimensional analysis problems. Throughout the term, instructors can assign Adaptive Follow-ups based on missed chemistry homework questions, ensuring students stay on track.
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Does Aktiv Chemistry offer automatic grading and feedback?
Yes. Aktiv provides an extensive library of auto-graded problems that significantly reduce instructor workload. Algorithmic problems and question pools further empower chemistry teachers to create a variety of assignments and offer students ample opportunities for practice.
Instructors can set the specific number of attempts allowed on chemistry homework. When a student submits an incorrect answer attempt, the platform offers helpful hints rather than simply stating the response is wrong. This targeted approach reduces frustration and provides essential support as students learn chemistry.
Explore AI-Powered Chemistry Homework
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How does Aktiv’s Ace differ from ChatGPT or generative AI tools?
Unlike generative AI platforms like ChatGPT, Ace is a purpose-built tutor designed for chemistry classes. It focuses on pedagogical support by guiding students through the process rather than simply providing a final answer.
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How does Ace ensure accuracy in chemistry and math problem solving?
Ace uses a proprietary computer algebra system to eliminate “AI hallucinations,” ensuring that every step of a chemistry math problem is verified for accuracy before feedback is given.
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What is Ace's approach to supporting learning? Does it give away answers?
Ace is built on a “pedagogy first” philosophy. The platform uses the Socratic method to help students logically progress through problems without directly prescribing next steps or giving away the correct answer, protecting academic integrity while providing the 24/7 support many often seek from chemistry homework help sites.
Start Teaching Chemistry Classes with Aktiv
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How do I get started and connect Aktiv to my LMS?
Connecting to your chemistry online course is simple. Aktiv integrates seamlessly with major systems like Canvas and Blackboard. Our team provides clear steps to access your account, connect Aktiv to your LMS, and onboard your students quickly.
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Which learning management systems (LMS) does Aktiv Chemistry integrate with?
Aktiv supports all major LMS platforms, including Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle, and D2L Brightspace. Seamless LMS integration means Aktiv Chemistry login and grade syncing are always streamlined.
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Does Aktiv Chemistry integrate with OpenStax chemistry textbooks?
Yes. Aktiv is a proud partner of OpenStax. Students can access OpenStax organic chemistry and general chemistry texts directly within the platform, making it a powerful choice for those looking for OER textbook adoption.
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Is Aktiv an affordable or low-cost option for chemistry online homework?
Aktiv is considered by many to be affordable, with a price point of $45. When paired with a free OpenStax organic chemistry or general chemistry text, it offers significant textbook cost savings over traditional publisher products.
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Does Aktiv participate in first day access or equitable access programs?
Yes. Aktiv supports various “First Day Access” initiatives to ensure every student has the tools they need to excel from the very beginning of chemistry classes.
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Does Aktiv meet WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards?
Aktiv is committed to accessibility. The Aktiv Chemistry platform meets WCAG 2.1 AA standards for student and instructor accounts when using accessible questions, supporting ADA Title II regulations and ensuring all students can learn chemistry effectively.
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Do Aktiv team members help support instructors with course setup?
Aktiv’s Customer Success team is dedicated to your success. The team assists with everything from initial onboarding and training to course design and accessibility.
