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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Formula Unit Mass and Molecular Mass?

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The main difference between formula unit mass and molecular mass lies in the type of compounds they are used for and the way they are calculated. Here are the key differences:

  1. Type of Compounds: Formula mass is used for ionic compounds, while molecular mass is used for covalent or molecular compounds.
  2. Calculation: Formula mass is calculated by simply adding the masses of atoms present in the simplest formula of an ionic compound. On the other hand, molecular mass is calculated using the actual numbers of atoms present in a molecule of a covalent compound.
  3. Units: Both formula mass and molecular mass are expressed in atomic mass units (amu).

In summary, the two terms are used for different types of compounds and are calculated differently. However, both formula mass and molecular mass represent the total mass of a substance.

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  • What is the Difference Between Formula Unit Mass and Molecular Mass?
  • Comparative Table: Formula Unit Mass vs Molecular Mass

    • Comparative Table: Formula Unit Mass vs Molecular Mass

    The main difference between formula unit mass and molecular mass lies in the types of compounds they represent. Here is a comparison between the two:

    Formula Unit Mass Molecular Mass
    Represents ionic compounds, which are ionically-bonded and found as lattice structures. Represents molecular compounds, which are held together by covalent bonds.
    The smallest unit of an ionic compound that retains the identity of the compound. The molecule representing the smallest fundamental unit of a chemical compound.
    Calculated by summing the masses of all the atoms shown in the chemical formula. Calculated by summing the masses of all the atoms shown in the chemical formula.
    Examples: CaCl2, Na2SO4 Examples: C2H6, O2

    In summary, formula unit mass is used for ionic compounds, while molecular mass is used for molecular compounds. Both formula unit mass and molecular mass can be calculated by summing the masses of all the atoms shown in the chemical formula.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.