1. What is a Chemical Formula?

A chemical formula represents the composition of a chemical compound using symbols of elements and numerical subscripts. It shows the types and numbers of atoms in the smallest representative unit of the substance.

2. How Does This Calculator Work?

The calculator matches input chemical formulas against a database of common compounds:

Note: The database includes common inorganic and organic compounds with their systematic or common names.

3. Importance of Chemical Formulas

Details: Chemical formulas are fundamental in chemistry for identifying substances, writing chemical equations, and performing stoichiometric calculations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the chemical formula exactly (case-sensitive for element symbols). For example:

• Correct: H2SO4
• Incorrect: h2so4

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why are some element symbols capitalized?
A: Chemical symbols always start with a capital letter (e.g., H for hydrogen, Cl for chlorine). A second lowercase letter may follow (e.g., Na for sodium).

Q2: What do the numbers in chemical formulas mean?
A: Subscript numbers indicate how many atoms of each element are present in one molecule of the compound.

Q3: Why doesn't the calculator recognize my formula?
A: The database is limited to common compounds. Ensure correct formatting and try alternative notations (e.g., CH3COOH instead of C2H4O2 for acetic acid).

Q4: How are chemical formulas determined?
A: Through experimental analysis of composition and structure, including mass spectrometry and X-ray crystallography.

Q5: What's the difference between empirical and molecular formulas?
A: Empirical shows simplest whole number ratio of elements (e.g., CH2O), while molecular shows actual numbers (e.g., C6H12O6 for glucose).