What is the difference between the empirical formula and molecular formula?

Both empirical and molecular formula give information about what different elements make up a compound. The empirical formula shows the simplest whole number ratio of the number of atoms of different elements present in a compound. However, the molecular formula shows the total number of atoms of each elements in a compound.
For example, the alkane butane has a molecular formula of C4H10. One molecule of Butane contains 4 Carbon atoms and 10 Hydrogen atoms. However, the empirical formula of Butane is C2H5. The simplest whole number ratio between the ratio 4:10 is 2:5.Sometimes, for certain molecules, the molecular formula may also be the same formula as the empirical formula. Taking water as an example which has a molecular formula of H2O. The simplest whole number ratio of the number of atoms of different elements in one molecule of water is still 2:1.

AV
Answered by Arvand V. Chemistry tutor

11279 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between an ionic and covalent bond?


How do you name this hydrocarbon?


Explain why the atomic radius of elements decreases as you move across the periodic table from the left to the right


Why does the reactivity of group 7 elements decrease down the periodic table?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences