molecular formula

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a chemical formula that indicates the kinds of atoms and the number of each kind in a molecule of a compound.

molecular formula

noun

1. a chemical formula indicating the numbers and types of atoms in a molecule Compare empirical formula structural formula

   H2SO4 is the molecular formula of sulphuric acid

molecular formula

1. A chemical formula that shows the total number and kinds of atoms in a molecule, but not their structural arrangement. For example, the molecular formula of aspirin is C 9 H 8 O 4 .
2. Compare empirical formula

Word History and Origins

Origin of molecular formula¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

With a molecular formula of C17H24O7, the compound was found to feature a distinctive ribose moiety, identified as α-ribofuranoside through stereochemical analysis.

From Science Daily

Sinise’s character, mission co-commander Jim McConnell, arrives at the party in a bizarre-looking silver two-seat convertible SUV called the VX-02, with the 2 in subscript signifying the molecular formula for oxygen.

From Fox News

“What’s the molecular formula for tetrodotoxin?”

From Literature

For those without chemistry degrees, C2H4 is the molecular formula for ethylene, which ripens plants.

From New York Times

“Before you dismiss science, Mr. President,” it said, “here is the molecular formula for hair spray.”

From Seattle Times