5.1.5

Calculating Relative Formula Mass

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Calculating the Relative Formula Mass (Mr)

To calculate the relative formula mass of a compound, we need to know the relative atomic masses (Ar) of the elements that make the compound. Then we multiply the Ar values by the number of atoms of that element in the compound. Then we add these numbers together.

E.g. hydrochloric acid (HCl)

E.g. hydrochloric acid (HCl)

  • Identify the relative atomic mass (Ar) of each element in the compound:
    • Ar of hydrogen = 1.
    • Ar of chlorine = 35.5.
      • Therefore, the total Mr of HCl is 1 + 35.5 = 36.5.
E.g. sulfuric acid (H<sub>2</sub>SO<sub>4</sub>)

E.g. sulfuric acid (H2SO4)

  • Identify the relative atomic mass (Ar) of each element in the compound:
    • Ar of hydrogen = 1.
    • Ar of sulfur = 32.
    • Ar of oxygen = 16.
      • Therefore, the total Mr of H2SO4 is (2x1) + (1x32) + (4x16) = 98.
Jump to other topics
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States of Matter

2

Elements, Compounds & Mixtures

3

Atomic Structure

4

The Periodic Table

5

Chemical Formulae, Equations & Calculations

6

Bonding

7

Electrolysis

8

Groups of the Periodic Table

9

The Atmosphere

10

Reactivity Series

11

Metal Extraction

12

Acids & Alkalis

13

Chemical Tests

14

Physical Chemistry

15

Organic Chemistry

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