Chapter 8, Problem 9KT

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The key term corresponding to the definition “a chemical formula that expresses the simplest whole number ratio of atoms of each element in a molecule, or ions in an ionic compound” is to be stated.

Concept introduction:

The empirical formula gives the proportions of the elements present in a compound. The simplest whole number ratio of atoms present in a compound is given by the empirical formula.

It does not show the actual number of atoms of the elements present in a compound.