Download Steps for solving an Empirical Formula Problem

Empirical Formula and Molecular Formula Problem Solving
Steps for solving an Empirical Formula Problem
1. If given % data, assume 100g of sample.
If given grams, then use grams and proceed to #2.
2. Convert g to moles for each element in the compound
3. Divide each of these mole amounts by smallest mole amount
calculated in #2
Then, if necessary, multiply all of these values by some whole
number (2,3,4 etc) in order to obtain all whole numbers. These are
the subscripts in the Empirical Formula
4. Write Empirical Formula.
If you are required to determine actual molecular formula and actual Molar Mass is given
5. Calculate the Molar Mass of the Empirical Formula you determined in
step 4.
6. Divide Actual Given Molar Mass by Empirical Formula Molar Mass.
This will be a WHOLE #
7. Multiply all Subscripts in Empirical Formula by this whole number.
8. Write ACTUAL Molecular Formula