What's the difference of this chemical formula?

Thread starter Jimin Lee
Start date Mar 6, 2018
Tags

Chemical Chemical formula Difference Formula

In summary, a chemical formula is a shorthand representation of the elements present in a substance and their ratios, while a molecular formula specifically shows the number of atoms of each element in a molecule. A chemical formula for a compound will have more than one element present, while a formula for an element will only have one element listed. Additionally, elements are represented by their symbols (e.g. H for hydrogen), while compounds are represented by their formulas (e.g. H2O for water). An empirical formula shows the simplest whole number ratio of atoms in a compound, while a structural formula shows the arrangement of atoms and bonds in a molecule. Structural formulas are more detailed and specific than empirical formulas. Yes, it is possible for different substances to have

Mar 6, 2018

Jimin Lee

Homework Statement

I found out that Bauxite has 2 formula,
which one is 2Al(OH)₃,
and the other one is Al₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄⋅2H₂O.

What's the difference of these formula?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

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Mar 6, 2018

Borek

Mentor

Exact composition of bauxite depends on the deposit it is taken from.

1. What is the difference between a chemical formula and a molecular formula?

A chemical formula is a shorthand representation of the elements present in a substance and their ratios, while a molecular formula specifically shows the number of atoms of each element in a molecule.

2. How do I know if a chemical formula is for a compound or an element?

A chemical formula for a compound will have more than one element present, while a formula for an element will only have one element listed. Additionally, elements are represented by their symbols (e.g. H for hydrogen), while compounds are represented by their formulas (e.g. H2O for water).

3. What's the difference between empirical and structural formulas?

An empirical formula shows the simplest whole number ratio of atoms in a compound, while a structural formula shows the arrangement of atoms and bonds in a molecule. Structural formulas are more detailed and specific than empirical formulas.

4. Can two different substances have the same chemical formula?

Yes, it is possible for different substances to have the same chemical formula. This is called isomerism, where compounds have the same molecular formula but different structural formulas and properties.

5. How can I calculate the molecular weight of a compound using its chemical formula?

To calculate the molecular weight of a compound, you can add up the atomic weights of each element present in the formula. The atomic weights can be found on the periodic table. For example, the molecular weight of H2O (water) would be (2 x hydrogen's atomic weight) + (1 x oxygen's atomic weight).