Molecular & Empirical Formulae (CIE AS Chemistry)

Revision Note

Test Yourself

Author

Philippa

Expertise

Chemistry

Molecular & Empirical Formulae of Organic Compounds

The molecular formula shows the number and type of each atom in a molecule
- Eg. the molecular formula of ethanoic acid is C₂H₄O₂
The empirical formula shows the simplest whole number ratio of the elements present in one molecule of the compound
- Eg. the empirical formula of ethanol is CH₂O

Worked example

Deduce the molecular and empirical formula of the following compounds:

worked-examples-empirical-and-molecular-formula

Answers:

3-1-an-introduction-to-as-level-organic-chemistry-answers-worked-example---deducing-molecular-and-empirical-formulae_2

You've read 0 of your 0 free revision notes

Get unlimited access

to absolutely everything:

Downloadable PDFs
Unlimited Revision Notes
Topic Questions
Past Papers
Model Answers
Videos (Maths and Science)

Join the 100,000+ Students that ❤️ Save My Exams

the (exam) results speak for themselves:

Test yourself Next topic

Did this page help you?

Author: Philippa

Philippa has worked as a GCSE and A level chemistry teacher and tutor for over thirteen years. She studied chemistry and sport science at Loughborough University graduating in 2007 having also completed her PGCE in science. Throughout her time as a teacher she was incharge of a boarding house for five years and coached many teams in a variety of sports. When not producing resources with the chemistry team, Philippa enjoys being active outside with her young family and is a very keen gardener.