Chapter U1, Problem C2.3RE

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Chemical formula is to be explained and its importance is to be written.

Concept introduction:

Elements combine in specific ratios to form compounds. Elements are denoted by chemical symbols and compounds are denoted by chemical formulas.

Answer to Problem C2.3RE

To form compounds, elements combine in fixed ratio. A compound is represented by a chemical formula. A chemical formula is a way of representing the composition of a chemical compound. The chemical formula tells us about the elements that form the compound. By looking at the chemical formula one can tell how many and which elements are there in the compound.

Explanation of Solution

To form compounds, elements combine in fixed ratio A compound is represented by a chemical formula. The chemical formula tells us about the elements that form the compound. By looking at the chemical formula one can tell how many elements are there in the compound. Each element is denoted by a different symbol in the formula. By knowing the symbols of elements one can identify the elements.

The chemical formula also tells us the ratio in which the elements combine to form the compound. The subscript numbers indicate the amount of each element in that substance.

Example: Sodium chloride has a chemical formula of NaCl. By looking at the formula one can say that there are two elements present in this compound. They are sodium (Na), chlorine (Cl). These elements are present in the ratio of 1:1.

Conclusion

Chemical formulas are used to represent chemical compounds. It gives useful information in a very short form.