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

11784 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Draw the atomic structure of Magnesium


How do you calculate the relative formula mass of a compound?


Why are group 1 elements more reactive as you go down the group?


5.00 g of copper(II) carbonate decomposes to form copper(II) oxide and carbon dioxide: CuCO3(g) → CuO(s) + CO2(g). Calculate the maximum mass of carbon dioxide that can be produced. (Mr of CuCO3 = 123.5, Mr of CO2 = 44.0)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences