Chemistry 21

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Formulas of Compounds

This topic distinguishes between an empirical formula and a molecular formula. Both are used to describe compounds. They are similar in several respects, but they are different from each other. Generally, they serve different purposes. This topic emphasizes empirical formulas. Even so, it is instructive to understand what a molecular formula is – partially for the purpose of contrast. A molecular formula provides the composition of the molecules that are present, whereas an empirical formula expresses the smallest whole-number ratio of atoms present. An example may provide the clearest difference between the two types of formulas.

  • Empirical formula: There are three molecules which have identical empirical formulas. The three molecules in this example are formaldehyde, erythrose, and glucose. Each of these have the same empirical formula which is CH2O. This is the smallest whole-number ratio of atoms present in each of these three compounds. All three molecules have the same ratio of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. For every one carbon atom, there are two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.
  • Molecular formula: In contrast, the molecular formulas of these three  molecules are formaldehyde (CH2O), erythrose (C4H8O4), and glucose (C6H12O6). Notice that the molecular formula describes the total number of atoms present (the composition) within their respective molecules.

This topic emphasizes empirical formulas derived through measuring (or, knowing) the mass of various elements in a compound..


Lesson 1 (or “Day 1”) Material
Lesson 2 (or “Day 2”) Material
Lesson 3 (or “Day 3”) Material
Lesson 4 (or “Day 4”) Material

2:02 Molecular Formula and Empirical formula | The differences

6:49 Empirical, molecular, and structural formulas

8:30 Empirical Formula and Molecular Formula Introduction


Compare Contrast and Debate

Kickoff Debate Background: xx

  • Position A: Honeycutt Science should x
  • Position B: Honeycutt Science should x

Resources Documents and Links

 

Notes and Notices

Instructor Emphasis:

  • Science & Engineering Practice: Use mathematical and computational thinking.
  • Cross-Cutting Concept: Structure and Function.