Finding the molecular formula involves deciphering the ratio of atoms in a molecule. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to find molecular formula.
**1. Determine the Empirical Formula:
- The first step is to find the empirical formula, which represents the simplest, most reduced ratio of atoms in a compound. This is achieved through experimental data, such as mass or percentage composition.
**2. Calculate the Molar Mass:
- Calculate the molar mass of the empirical formula using the atomic masses of the elements involved. The molar mass is the mass of one mole of the substance and is expressed in grams per mole (g/mol).
**3. Obtain the Molecular Mass:
- Compare the experimentally determined molecular mass with the calculated molar mass of the empirical formula. If the two masses are the same, the empirical formula is also the molecular formula.
