Chemistry Reflection 6

Today in Chemistry, we learn about empirical formula and molecular formula. While empirical formula is just an estimation of the number of atoms in an element, molecular formula is like exact. The way to find it is also similar.

To find an empirical formula, you need to know the mass so for example

Calcium=36.1 grams

Chlorine = 63.9 grams

After we know the grams, we need to divide by the molar mass

Calcium =

Chlorine =

Now we need to divide both numbers with the smallest equation which is 0.9

0.9/0.9 = 1

1.8/0.9 = 2

So the ratio is 1:2 so it is CaCl₂

To find the molecular formula you need the molar mass of the compound and then just repeat the process to find the exact ratio.