What is empirical formula and how is it worked out?

This is the lowest/simplest ratio of the molecule. For example propene has the formula C3H6 - if we look a the subscript numbers (the ones down here!) we can see that smaller numbers are possible. It is important to know the relationship between these numbers. In this case you can write this simply as CnH2n. Therefore the empirical formula for propene is CH2.Another example is propane which is C3H8We can work out that the relationship is as follows: CnH2n+2 and therefore the empirical formula is CH4.

EW
Answered by Emma W. Chemistry tutor

15047 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain the difference between an unsaturated and saturated compound.


What determines rate of reaction?


Explain the physical properties of graphite in terms of its structure and bonding


How does fractional distillation work?


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