3.2.2

Relative Molecular Mass (Mr)

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Understanding Relative Molecular Mass (Mr)

Relative Molecular Mass (Mr) is the sum of relative atomic masses in a molecule. For ionic compounds, it's Relative Formula Mass. Calculate by adding atomic masses from the Periodic Table.

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What is relative molecular mass?

  • Relative molecular mass (Mr) is the sum of the relative atomic masses of the atoms in a molecule.
    • It shows how heavy one molecule is compared to one-twelfth of a carbon-12 atom.
  • Chemists use Mr to compare molecule sizes.
Illustrative background for What is relative formula mass?Illustrative background for What is relative formula mass? ?? "content

What is relative formula mass?

  • Relative formula mass (Mr) is used for ionic compounds.
    • Ionic compounds do not form molecules but have formulas.
  • Mr adds up the relative atomic masses of all atoms in the formula.
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Using atomic mass from the periodic table

  • Each element's relative atomic mass is on the Periodic Table.
  • To find the Mr of a molecule, add the atomic masses of all atoms.
    • For example, water (H2O) has Mr = 2(H) + 1(O) = 2 x 1 + 16 = 18.
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Summary of calculations

  • To calculate Mr, write the chemical formula.
    • Find atomic masses from the Periodic Table.
    • Add atomic masses, considering the number of atoms.
  • Use Mr for molecules and relative formula mass for ionic compounds.

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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