Multiple Choice
The molar mass of a compound is 52.07 g/mol. Its empirical formula is CH. Determine the molecular formula of the compound.
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3. Chemical Reactions
Molecular Formula
Multiple Choice
What is the purpose of subscripts in chemical formulas?
A
To show the charge of the molecule
B
To specify the physical state of the compound
C
To represent the mass of each element in the compound
D
To indicate the number of atoms of each element present in a molecule
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that chemical formulas are symbolic representations of molecules or compounds, showing which elements are present and in what proportions.
Recognize that subscripts in a chemical formula are the small numbers written to the right and slightly below the chemical symbols (e.g., the 2 in H\2O).
Know that these subscripts indicate the number of atoms of each element in one molecule or formula unit of the compound.
Distinguish that subscripts do not show the charge of the molecule; charges are indicated by superscripts (e.g., Na\(\u\)+\(\u\)).
Also note that subscripts do not specify physical states or masses; physical states are shown by symbols like (s), (l), (g), and masses are determined by atomic weights, not subscripts.
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