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.

Answered by Arvand V. Chemistry tutor

10134 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do I calculate bond enthalpy from a chemical reaction?


How can I check if my reaction equations are correct?


Explain why pure metals can be bent and shaped, whereas alloys cannot?


Draw a diagram that represents the electronic arrangement of a fluorine atom.


We're here to help

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