Molecular Formula
| Also Known As | True formula, molecular composition formula, empirical formula (related but different) |
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What is Molecular Formula?
A chemical formula showing the actual number of atoms of each element in one molecule of a compound, without indicating structure. For example, glucose is C₆H₁₂O₆. The molecular formula can be derived from the empirical formula and the molar mass of the compound.
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A chemical formula showing the actual number of atoms of each element in one molecule of a compound, without indicating structure. For example, glucose is C₆H₁₂O₆. The molecular formula can be derived from the empirical formula and the molar mass of the compound.
Molecular formulas are used in: writing balanced chemical equations, calculating molar mass, identifying compounds by high-resolution mass spectrometry (exact mass), and as a starting point for structural elucidation. IUPAC systematic nomenclature is derived from the molecular formula connectivity.
Molecular formula alone does not reveal hazard — ethanol (C₂H₆O) and dimethyl ether (C₂H₆O) are structural isomers with the same molecular formula but very different properties. Always identify the specific structure, not just the formula, before making safety assessments.