3.1.1

Understanding Formulae

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Understanding Formulae

Atomic theory helped formula writing, making it clearer and consistent. Writing, understanding, and deducing formulae from models and diagrams is key to learning chemical reactions and compounds.

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Formulae of elements and compounds

  • The formulae for key elements are, for example:
    • H2 for Hydrogen; O2 is oxygen.
  • Compounds have formulae, for example:
    • H2O for water; CO2 for carbon dioxide
  • Writing formulae correctly shows the types and numbers of atoms in substances.
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Defining molecular formula

  • Molecular formula shows the count of each atom type in one molecule.
    • For example, glucose has the molecular formula C6H12O6.
  • Molecular formula helps describe real molecules beyond simple ratios.
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Using models & diagrams for formulae

  • To count atoms, you may use models or diagrams:
    • If a diagram shows 2 oxygen and 1 carbon atom, the formula is CO2.
    • If a model has 1 sodium and 1 chloride atom, it equals NaCl.
  • Students usually practice to identify formulae from visual atom arrangements.
  • This skill links practical work with formula writing.

Jump to other topics

1States of Matter

2Atoms, Elements & Compounds

3Stoichometry

4Electrochemistry

5Chemical Energetics

6Chemical Reactions

7Acids, Bases & Salts

8The Periodic Table

9Metals

10Chemistry of the Environment

11Organic Chemistry

11.1Formulae, Functional Groups & Terminology

11.2Naming Organic Compounds

11.3Fuels

11.4Alkanes

11.5Alkenes

11.6Alcohols

11.7Carboxylic Acids

11.8Polymers

12Experimental Techniques & Chemical Analysis

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