Organic Formulae

Question 1

Molecular formula

Answer 1

formula that gives the actual number of atoms of each element in one molecule
e.g C4H10, C2H6O

Question 2

Empirical formula

Answer 2

formula that gives the simplest ratio of atoms of each element in a compound
e.g. C4H10 –> C2H5
C2H6O —> C2H6O

Question 3

General formula

Answer 3

this shows the number of atoms of each element in a substance that has n carbon atoms. all molecules in a homologous series have the same general formula
e.g. CnH2n+2, CnH2n+1OH

Question 4

structural formula

Answer 4

this shows how the atoms are joined together in a molecule
e.g. CH3 CH2 CH2 CH3,
CH3 CH2 OH

Question 5

displayed formula

Answer 5

this shows all the bonds and atoms in a molecule

e.g. PIC

Question 6

skeletal formula

Answer 6

this uses lines to represent bonds. each point represents a C atom. H atoms and bonds to H atoms are not usually shown ( unless part of a functional group e.g. alcohol) other atoms are shown.
e.g.C4H10 –> /\/, C2H5OH –> /\OH