Determine the molecular and empirical formulas of the following: (b) the compound silicon tetrachloride, which has a silicon atom and four chlorine atoms and is used in the manufacture of computer chips

Key Concepts

Molecular Formula

The molecular formula of a compound indicates the actual number of each type of atom present in a molecule. For silicon tetrachloride (SiCl4), the molecular formula reflects that there is one silicon atom and four chlorine atoms, represented as SiCl4. This formula provides insight into the composition of the molecule and is essential for understanding its chemical behavior.

Empirical Formula

The empirical formula represents the simplest whole-number ratio of the elements in a compound. For silicon tetrachloride, the empirical formula is also SiCl4, as there is no simpler ratio of silicon to chlorine in this compound. Understanding the empirical formula is important for stoichiometric calculations and determining the proportions of elements in reactions.

Chemical Composition

Chemical composition refers to the types and amounts of elements that make up a compound. In the case of silicon tetrachloride, the composition consists of one silicon atom and four chlorine atoms. This concept is fundamental in chemistry as it influences the properties and reactivity of the compound, particularly in applications like semiconductor manufacturing.