Molecular formulas

Question

Some of the formulas below could be either molecular or empirical formulas; however, some could only be molecular formulas. Which of the following formulas must be molecular formulas? Select all that apply.

a. C4H5N2O

b. HO

c. C8H10N4O2

d. NO2

e. C6H12O6

Answer 1

Add to Lauren’s answer (e) C6H12O6 for the same reason. You can divide by 6 to get CH2O.

Answer 2

c. C8H10N4O2

Because this formula can be reduced to an empirical formula by dividing by 2:

C4H5N2O