Types of formulae

Question 1

What is the definition of a molecular formula?

Answer 1

A molecular formula is a formula that shows the actual number of each atom of each element present in the compound.

Question 2

What is the definition of a displayed formula?

Answer 2

A displayed formula is a formula that shows every atom and every bond
- single bond
= double bond
=
- Three lines under each other is a triple bond.

Question 3

What is the definition of an empirical formula?

Answer 3

An empirical formula is the simplest whole number ratio of the atoms of each element present in a commpound
e.g- 5:10=1:2.

Question 4

What is the definition of a structural formula?

Answer 4

A structural formula is a formula that leaves out carbons and any hydrogen atoms attached to a carbon atom. It is drawn as a zig zag to represent shape around each carbon atom.

Question 5

What is the definition of a general formula?

Answer 5

A general formula allows the formula of any compounds in the homologous series to be determined. E.g pentene belongs to the alkenes homologous series which has the general formula
CnH2n