How does empirical formula differ from molecular?

1 Answer
laurengb1908
Mar 14, 2018

An empirical formula gives the simplest and most reduced whole number ratio of atoms whereas a molecular formula gives the actual ratio of atoms in a compound.

Explanation:

For example, the molecular formula of glucose is C6H12O6, and the empirical formula of glucose is CH2O.

As you can see, the empirical formula is the simplified ratio of the molecular formula whereas the molecular formula isn't simplified at all.

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