What is the Difference Between Gram Molecular Weight and Gram Equivalent Weight?

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The key difference between gram molecular weight and gram equivalent weight lies in the unit of measurement and the concept they represent. Here's a breakdown of the differences:

  • Gram Molecular Weight: This term refers to the molecular weight of a substance, which is numerically equal to the mass of a molecule in atomic mass units (amu) or grams. In other words, it represents the total atomic mass of a molecule for a compound.
  • Gram Equivalent Weight: This term refers to the mass of an equivalent in grams. The equivalent weight is often expressed in grams per equivalent. It is the portion of the compound's molecular weight associated with each valence electron.

In summary, both gram molecular weight and gram equivalent weight are measured in grams. However, gram molecular weight represents the total atomic mass of a molecule for a compound, while gram equivalent weight describes the mass of one equivalent in grams.

Comparative Table: Gram Molecular Weight vs Gram Equivalent Weight

The key difference between gram molecular weight and gram equivalent weight lies in the fact that gram molecular weight is numerically equal to the molecular weight of a substance, whereas gram equivalent weight refers to the mass of one equivalent in grams. Here is a table comparing the two concepts:

Term Definition Unit of Measurement Application
Gram Molecular Weight The mass in grams of one mole of a particular substance. Grams Used to express the mass of a substance in relation to its molar mass.
Gram Equivalent Weight The mass of one equivalent in grams. Grams Used to express the amount of a substance that reacts with or is equivalent to a certain amount of another substance.

Both gram molecular weight and gram equivalent weight are measured in grams, but they represent different concepts in chemistry. Molecular weight is a measure of the mass of one mole of a substance, while equivalent weight is a measure of the amount of a substance that reacts with or is equivalent to a certain amount of another substance.