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Empirical Formula

Chemistry: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 3.1.2

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.

Molecular formula

Molecular formula

  • The molecular formula shows the actual amount of atoms which make up a molecule.
  • E.g. glucose = C6H12O6.
Empirical formula

Empirical formula

  • The empirical formula shows the simplest ratio of atoms which make up a molecule.
  • E.g. glucose = CH2O.

Test yourself on Empirical Formula

  • What is the empirical formula for glucose?

  • What is the molecular formula for glucose?

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