Empirical formula

An empirical formula is one consisting of atomic symbols giving the simplest possible expression of the stoichiometric composition of a compound that agrees with the results of elementary quantitative analysis.

Note:

1. For example, the molecular formula of all the oses, such as glucose, is CH₂O.

2. The expression "molecular formula" takes into account the actual number of each atom in the molecule. For example, the molecular formula of glucose is C6H12O6.