Chemistry
Empirical Formula
Determine the simplest whole-number ratio of atoms in a compound.
Mole Ratio = Mass Percentage / Atomic Mass; then simplify to the smallest whole-number ratio
Formula Explanation
Convert element masses to mole amounts, divide by the smallest amount, and obtain a whole-number ratio.
Variables Explained
Mass percentage = Element proportion by mass; Atomic mass = Relative atomic mass.
Solved Example
A compound has a 1:2 mole ratio of carbon to oxygen. Give its empirical formula.
The empirical formula is CO₂.