empirical formula
noun
: a chemical formula showing the simplest ratio of elements in a compound rather than the total number of atoms in the molecule
CH2O is the empirical formula for glucose
Examples of empirical formula in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In 1973 Carl Sagan devised a more empirical formula for Kardashev’s scale that allowed for finer gradations.
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Lee Billings, Scientific American, 17 Apr. 2015
Lee Billings, Scientific American, 17 Apr. 2015
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'empirical formula.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1837, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of empirical formula was
in 1837
Dictionary Entries Near empirical formula
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“Empirical formula.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/empirical%20formula. Accessed 6 Dec. 2023.
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Kids Definition
empirical formula
noun
: a chemical formula showing the simplest ratio of elements in a compound rather than the total number of atoms in the molecule
Medical Definition
empirical formula
noun
: a chemical formula showing the simplest ratio of elements in a compound rather than the total number of atoms in the molecule
CH2O is the empirical formula for glucose
compare molecular formula
More from Merriam-Webster on empirical formula
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about empirical formula
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