Types of formula for organic molecules
2 marks · HardA student writes the formula C5H12 for an organic compound.
State the type of formula this is and explain what information it gives about the compound.
Type of formula:
Explanation:
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(a) molecular formula
(b) It shows the actual number of each atom of carbon and hydrogen present in one molecule, but does not show how the atoms are joined together.
Common mistakes: Calling it a structural formula or empirical formula
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Correctly identifies as molecular formula.
B2 (b) · 1 mark · States that the formula gives the number of each type of atom in the molecule but not structure.
Worked solution
a) The formula C5H12 is a molecular formula.
b) The molecular formula tells you there are 5 carbon atoms and 12 hydrogen atoms in each molecule, but it does not show how the atoms are connected.