Chapter 2, Problem 5CO

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Explain the difference between a molecular formula and an empirical formula.

Concept introduction:

Molecular formula:

As name suggests that it represents the molecule of a compound, it indicates the types of atoms and number of atoms present in a molecule of a compound.

Ex:

Ethane ${\text{C}}_2{\text{H}}_6$ It indicates that one molecules of ethane contains $2$ carbon atoms and $6\text{ H}-$ atom.

Empirical formula:

It is the simplest formula, which tells us that simplest ratio of atom of different elements present in a molecula or simplest mole ratio of elements in a molecule.

Ex:

Empirical formula of ethane: $\left({\text{CH}}_3\right)$