Chapter 6, Problem 44A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation :

The difference between the molecular formula of a compound and the empirical formula must be explained. Whether a compound’s empirical formula and molecular formula can be same or not must also be explained.

Concept Introduction :

Empirical formula of a molecule is the smallest unit which is repeated in the molecule.

Molecular formula of a compound is the representation of the molecule with the number of different atoms present in the molecule.

Molecular formula $\text{=empirical formula×n}$ where n is any positive integer like 1, 2, 3 and so on.

Explanation of Solution

The molecular formula can be found from the empirical formula using the following relationship.

Molecular formula $\text{=empirical formula×n}$ where n is any positive integer like 1, 2, 3 and so on.

Now when n=1, then molecular formula will be same as empirical formula.

For example formaldehyde has empirical formula as CH₂O which is also the molecular formula.

Conclusion

Molecular formula is just the multiple of empirical formula and these two might be same for some compound.