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.

Illustrative background for E.g. hydrochloric acid (HCl)Illustrative background for E.g. hydrochloric acid (HCl) ?? "content

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.
Illustrative background for E.g. sulfuric acid (H<sub>2</sub>SO<sub>4</sub>)Illustrative background for E.g. sulfuric acid (H<sub>2</sub>SO<sub>4</sub>) ?? "content

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

1States of Matter

2Elements, Compounds & Mixtures

3Atomic Structure

4The Periodic Table

5Chemical Formulae, Equations & Calculations

6Bonding

7Electrolysis

8Groups of the Periodic Table

9The Atmosphere

10Reactivity Series

11Metal Extraction

12Acids & Alkalis

13Chemical Tests

14Physical Chemistry

15Organic Chemistry

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