A current question in learning psychology deals with whether information is encoded and processed in relational relationships or if it occurs in the form of images and other sensory elements. In the field of natural sciences, there is the impression that sensory perceptions and the derived visual concepts are attributed little explanatory value. This study creates a new approach to this issue in order to better assess the significance of visual concepts in teaching and learning processes in chemistry. A participant's quote is indicative: "When you develop an image, understanding comes - otherwise it's just knowledge, without understanding.".