'Empirical formula' definitions:

Definition of 'empirical formula'

From: WordNet
noun
A chemical formula showing the ratio of elements in a compound rather than the total number of atoms

Definition of 'Empirical formula'

From: GCIDE
  • Empiric \Em*pir"ic\, Empirical \Em*pir"ic*al\, a.
  • 1. Pertaining to, or founded upon, experiment or experience; depending upon the observation of phenomena; versed in experiments. [1913 Webster]
  • In philosophical language, the term empirical means simply what belongs to or is the product of experience or observation. --Sir W. Hamilton. [1913 Webster]
  • The village carpenter . . . lays out his work by empirical rules learnt in his apprenticeship. --H. Spencer. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. Depending upon experience or observation alone, without due regard to science and theory; -- said especially of medical practice, remedies, etc.; wanting in science and deep insight; as, empiric skill, remedies. [1913 Webster]
  • Empirical formula. (Chem.) See under Formula.
  • Syn: See Transcendental. [1913 Webster]

Definition of 'Empirical formula'

From: GCIDE
  • Formula \For"mu*la\, n.; pl. E. Formulas, L. Formul[ae]. [L., dim. of forma form, model. SeeForm, n.]
  • 1. A prescribed or set form; an established rule; a fixed or conventional method in which anything is to be done, arranged, or said. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Eccl.) A written confession of faith; a formal statement of foctrines. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. (Math.) A rule or principle expressed in algebraic language; as, the binominal formula. [1913 Webster]
  • 4. (Med.) A prescription or recipe for the preparation of a medicinal compound. [1913 Webster]
  • 5. (Chem.) A symbolic expression (by means of letters, figures, etc.) of the constituents or constitution of a compound. [1913 Webster]
  • Note: Chemical formul[ae] consist of the abbreviations of the names of the elements, with a small figure at the lower right hand, to denote the number of atoms of each element contained. [1913 Webster]
  • Empirical formula (Chem.), an expression which gives the simple proportion of the constituents; as, the empirical formula of acetic acid is C2H4O2.
  • Graphic formula, Rational formula (Chem.), an expression of the constitution, and in a limited sense of the structure, of a compound, by the grouping of its atoms or radicals; as, a rational formula of acetic acid is CH3.(C:O).OH; -- called also structural formula, constitutional formula, etc. See also the formula of Benzene nucleus, under Benzene.
  • Molecular formula (Chem.), a formula indicating the supposed molecular constitution of a compound. [1913 Webster]