Empirical Formula Calculator

Enter value and click on calculate. Result will be displayed.
Carbon (C) :
Hydrogen (H) :
Oxygen (O) :
Result:

Element C H O
Mass
Mole
Mole
Divide by small
Mole Ratio

What is an Empirical Formula Calculator?
An Empirical Formula Calculator is a tool that determines the simplest whole-number ratio of elements in a compound. It doesn’t show the exact number of atoms, just their relative proportions. For example, the empirical formula of glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) is CH₂O because it shows the simplest ratio of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.

Why use an Empirical Formula Calculator?

  • Saves time and reduces errors: Manual calculations can be tricky, especially for large compounds.
  • Essential for chemistry studies: Understanding molecular composition starts with empirical formulas.
  • Useful in research and industry: Helps identify unknown compounds from experimental data.
  • Converts experimental data: When you have mass percentages or moles of elements, the calculator simplifies the process.

How does an Empirical Formula Calculator work?

  1. Input the mass or percentage of each element in a compound.
  2. Convert mass to moles using atomic masses from the periodic table:
  1. Find the simplest whole-number ratio by dividing each element’s mole amount by the smallest number of moles.
  2. Get the empirical formula from the results.

Example:
For a compound with 40% carbon, 6.7% hydrogen, and 53.3% oxygen:

Divide all by 3.33:

  • Carbon: 1
  • Hydrogen: 2
  • Oxygen: 1

Empirical formula: CH₂O

When to use an Empirical Formula Calculator?

  • In lab work when analyzing experimental data.
  • For chemical synthesis to ensure proper compound formulation.
  • In academic studies when learning about chemical composition.
  • For solving stoichiometry problems in chemical reactions.