Must the empirical formula of an unknown compound be found before the molecular formula can be determined?

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Must the empirical formula of an unknown compound be found before the molecular formula can be determined?

2006-12-04 11:27:34 · 2 answers · asked by Gideon 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics

2 answers

In most cases, yes. Having said that, it probably depends on the specific problem you're given, and the method you're using to get to the molecular formula.

2006-12-04 11:30:47 · answer #1 · answered by hcbiochem 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋

"Must"? There's probably a way around it. But I always find the empirical formula first. Why are you so squeamish about that? It's not that hard. Once you find it, then the molecular formula is just a multiple of that.

2006-12-04 19:31:41 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋