3.1.2

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

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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