From the Molecular Formula to the Empirical Formula | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Learn how to convert molecular formulas to empirical formulas by reducing the ratios of the elements in compounds.

Key Insights

• 😘 The empirical formula represents the lowest whole number ratio of elements in a compound.
• 😘 Converting a molecular formula to an empirical formula involves reducing the subscripts of the elements to their lowest ratio.
• 😘 Some compounds may have the same empirical and molecular formulas, indicating that they are already at their lowest ratio.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: What is the difference between an empirical formula and a molecular formula?

The empirical formula shows the lowest whole number ratio of elements in a compound, while the molecular formula shows the actual whole number ratio.

Q: How do you convert a molecular formula to an empirical formula?

To convert a molecular formula to an empirical formula, you need to reduce the subscripts of the elements to their lowest ratio by finding the greatest common divisor.

Q: Can all molecular formulas be converted to empirical formulas?

No, not all molecular formulas can be converted to empirical formulas. Some may already be at their lowest ratio, resulting in the empirical formula being the same as the molecular formula.

Q: Can you provide an example of a compound with different empirical and molecular formulas?

Sodium sulfate is an example of a compound with different empirical and molecular formulas. Its molecular formula is Na2SO4, while its empirical formula is also Na2SO4.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The empirical formula shows the lowest whole number ratio of elements in a compound, while the molecular formula shows the actual whole number ratio.

• By reducing the subscripts of the elements in a molecular formula, we can determine the empirical formula.

• Examples of converting molecular formulas to empirical formulas are provided for several compounds, including hydrogen peroxide, benzene, caffeine, and ribose.