Determine the molecular and empirical formulas of the following: (a) the organic solvent benzene, which has six carbon atoms and six hydrogen atoms

Key Concepts

Molecular Formula

The molecular formula of a compound indicates the actual number of each type of atom present in a molecule. For benzene, which consists of six carbon atoms and six hydrogen atoms, the molecular formula is C6H6. This formula provides insight into the composition of the molecule and is essential for understanding its chemical properties.

Empirical Formula

The empirical formula represents the simplest whole-number ratio of the elements in a compound. For benzene, the molecular formula C6H6 can be simplified to CH, indicating that the ratio of carbon to hydrogen is 1:1. The empirical formula is useful for understanding the basic composition of a compound without detailing the actual number of atoms.

Organic Compounds

Organic compounds are primarily composed of carbon and are characterized by the presence of carbon-hydrogen bonds. Benzene is a classic example of an organic compound, known for its ring structure and stability due to resonance. Understanding the nature of organic compounds is crucial for studying their chemical behavior and reactions.