Empirical Formula Calculator to Find Simplest Ch...
Calculate the empirical and molecular formula of a compound from percent composition or mass data. Essential for analytical chemistry and compound identification.
What is an Empirical Formula?
The empirical formula is the simplest whole-number ratio of atoms in a compound. It is derived from experimental data (percent composition or mass data). For example, glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) has the molecular formula, but its empirical formula is CH₂O — the simplest 1:2:1 ratio.
🧬 Empirical Formula Calculator
Use our free calculator for instant, accurate results.
📐 Formula
moles = mass / molar mass; ratio = moles of each / smallest moles
Divide each element's mole count by the smallest value. If ratios are not integers, multiply by the appropriate factor (e.g., ×2 for 0.5, ×3 for 0.33).
📝 Worked Example
Compound: 40% C, 6.7% H, 53.3% O (in 100g):
C: 40/12=3.33, H: 6.7/1=6.7, O: 53.3/16=3.33
Ratio: 1:2:1 → Empirical formula: CH₂O
📝 How to Use the Calculator
❓ FAQ
What is the difference between empirical and molecular formula?
Molecular formula is the actual number of atoms (C₆H₁₂O₆). Empirical is the simplest ratio (CH₂O). They may be the same or differ by an integer factor n.
How do I find n to get the molecular formula?
n = Molar Mass / Empirical Formula Mass. Multiply all subscripts in the empirical formula by n.
Veer Kumavat
Founder & AuthorVeer is a 14-year-old student from Nashik, Maharashtra, who built SciFi Calculators to help students worldwide master STEM subjects. He is passionate about making complex science and math problems accessible through intuitive digital tools.