1. Representing Organic Molecules: Formulae Types
Organic chemistry uses several types of formulas to represent molecules, each providing a different level of detail. The empirical formula gives the simplest whole-number ratio of atoms. The molecular formula shows the actual number of atoms of each element in a molecule. The structural formula shows how atoms are connected, often in a condensed way (e.g., CH3CH2OH). The displayed formula is a 2D representation showing every atom and every bond. Finally, the skeletal formula is a simplified drawing where carbon atoms are represented by corners and ends of lines, and hydrogen atoms attached to carbons are omitted.
Empirical Formula of Butane: C2H5
Molecular Formula of Butane: C4H10
Structural Formula of Butane: CH3CH2CH2CH3
Skeletal Formula of Butane: A zig-zag line with 3 bends, representing 4 carbons.
Key term
Examiner insight
Common pitfall
Worked example 14 marks
A compound used in perfume has the following percentage composition by mass: C, 79.9%; H, 9.4%; O, 10.7%. The relative molecular mass is 150. Determine the empirical and molecular formula of the compound.
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Step 1: Assume 100g of the compound. Mass of C = 79.9g, Mass of H = 9.4g, Mass of O = 10.7g.
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Step 2: Convert mass to moles by dividing by Ar. Moles C = 79.9/12.0 = 6.658. Moles H = 9.4/1.0 = 9.4. Moles O = 10.7/16.0 = 0.66875.
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Step 3: Find the simplest whole number ratio by dividing by the smallest number of moles (0.66875). Ratio C = 6.658/0.66875 ≈ 10. Ratio H = 9.4/0.66875 ≈ 14. Ratio O = 0.66875/0.66875 = 1.
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Step 4: The empirical formula is C10H14O.
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Step 5: Calculate the mass of the empirical formula. (10 * 12.0) + (14 * 1.0) + (1 * 16.0) = 120 + 14 + 16 = 150.
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Step 6: Compare the empirical formula mass to the relative molecular mass. 150 / 150 = 1. Therefore, the molecular formula is the same as the empirical formula: C10H14O.
Worked example 22 marks
Draw the displayed formula and the skeletal formula for pentan-3-one, CH3CH2COCH2CH3.
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Displayed Formula: Draw a chain of 5 carbon atoms. The third carbon has a double bond to an oxygen atom. All other carbons are saturated with hydrogen atoms. Ensure every C-H and C-C single bond is shown.
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Skeletal Formula: Draw a zig-zag line with 4 segments (representing 5 carbons). On the third carbon (from either end), draw a double bond extending to an 'O'.
Recap
- Empirical formula is the simplest ratio of atoms.
- Molecular formula is the actual number of atoms in a molecule.
- Structural formula shows the arrangement of atoms, can be condensed.
- Displayed formula shows all atoms and all bonds individually.
- Skeletal formula simplifies the structure, showing only the carbon backbone and functional groups.
Quick check
- What is the molecular formula of a compound with empirical formula CH2O and a relative molecular mass of 90?2 marks
- Draw the skeletal formula of 2-methylpentane.1 mark