3.1.8

Empirical Formula

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Molecular vs Empirical Formula

The molecular formula shows the actual amount of atoms which make up a molecule. The empirical formula shows the simplest ratio of atoms which make up a molecule.

Illustrative background for Molecular formulaIllustrative background for Molecular formula ?? "content

Molecular formula

  • The molecular formula shows the actual amount of atoms which make up a molecule.
    • E.g. glucose = C6H12O6
Illustrative background for Empirical formulaIllustrative background for Empirical formula ?? "content

Empirical formula

  • The empirical formula shows the simplest ratio of atoms which make up a molecule.
    • E.g. glucose = CH2O

Jump to other topics

1Atomic Structure

2Chemical Bonding

3Quantitative Chemistry

4Chemical Changes

5Energy Changes

6The Rate & Extent of Chemical Change

7Organic Chemistry

8Chemical Analysis

9Chemistry of the Atmosphere

10Using Resources

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