What is the molecular formula of a compound?

1 Answer
anor277
Jul 1, 2017

The #"molecular formula"# is what the name says on the tin.....

Explanation:

It expresses the proportions and identities of atoms in a discrete molecule, i.e. #"butane"#, #C_4H_10#, #"ethylene"#, #C_2H_4#, and this formula is used to determine the molecular mass (this is the distinction between #"molecular formula"# and #"empirical formula"#, where the latter is the simplest whole number ratio defining constituent atoms in a species, and the former is a whole number multiple of the #"empirical formula"# (and of course the multiple might be one).

Confused yet? This is something that is fundamental to the study of chemistry, and it would be worthwhile to get the definitions right, and consolidate your understanding early on. Good luck.

Related questions
See all questions in Determining Formula
Impact of this question
5445 views around the world
You can reuse this answer
Creative Commons License