ASChemistryCIERevision Notes13. An Introduction to AS Level Organic Chemistry13.1 Formulas, Functional Groups & the Naming of Organic CompoundsMolecular & Empirical Formulae

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First teaching 2023

First exams 2025

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Molecular & Empirical Formulae (CIE AS Chemistry)

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Molecular & Empirical Formulae of Organic Compounds

  • The molecular formula shows the number and type of each atom in a molecule
    • Eg. the molecular formula of ethanoic acid is C2H4O2

  • The empirical formula shows the simplest whole number ratio of the elements present in one molecule of the compound
    • Eg. the empirical formula of ethanol is CH2O

Worked example

Deduce the molecular and empirical formula of the following compounds:

worked-examples-empirical-and-molecular-formula

Answers:

3-1-an-introduction-to-as-level-organic-chemistry-answers-worked-example---deducing-molecular-and-empirical-formulae_2

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    Philippa

    Author: Philippa

    Expertise: Chemistry

    Philippa has worked as a GCSE and A level chemistry teacher and tutor for over thirteen years. She studied chemistry and sport science at Loughborough University graduating in 2007 having also completed her PGCE in science. Throughout her time as a teacher she was incharge of a boarding house for five years and coached many teams in a variety of sports. When not producing resources with the chemistry team, Philippa enjoys being active outside with her young family and is a very keen gardener.