Empirical Formula
When a chemist is studying an unknown substance, it is possible to do a chemical analysis determining the percent composition of each element that makes up the substance. This percent composition can then be used to find the actual empirical formula, or the simplest possible ratio of elements of the compound. This worksheet instructs students how to use percent composition to calculate the empirical formula of an unknown compound.
Essential concepts: Moles, molar mass, mole ratio, percent composition, empirical formula.
Answer key: Included in the chemistry instructor resources subscription. Click here for details.
