previous topic
Chemical
Glossary Index
Glossary Index
next topic
CHIP
MSDS
Topics
Free Sites FAQ's Regulations Glossary Software Suppliers
Books Forum Poll Fun stuff Quiz Store
Understand your MSDS with the MS-Demystifier Search ALL our MSDS info

Chemical Formula

antislip safety shower eyewsah sign

Ensure a safe workplace with antislip floor marking signs from Safety Emporium.

Definitions

A chemical formula expresses the exact composition of a molecule or substance using the chemical abbreviations of the chemical elements.

A chemical element is a substance that can not be separated into simpler substances by chemical means. There are currently 118 known chemical elements of which 94 are naturally occurring (albeit some of those occur only in minuscule quantities). Common examples of chemical elements include carbon, hydrogen, chlorine, sodium and iron.

The smallest basic unit of a chemical element that can enter into chemical reactions is called an atom.

Additional Info

There are several different ways of expressing chemical formulas:

an incubating rocking laboratory shaker

Safety Emporium has all kinds of lab equipment such as this incubating rocking shakers and more.

SDS Relevance

Safety Data Sheets provide key information about the chemicals that you use in your workplace. Be sure to read and understand the SDS of every substance you use or are exposed to at work before you work with the material.

Recognize that a molecular formula is not necessarily a unique identifier for a chemical substance. Do not rely on molecular formulas alone to label or identify a substance. For example, the molecular formulas of glucose (a form of sugar) and 1,3-dihydroxy-2-propanone dimer (an eye and skin irritant) are identical, C6H12O6.

Chemical names are not always reliable because a common chemical may be known by several different names. For example, methylene chloride, dichloromethane and methylenebichloride are common names for the same substance, CH2Cl2. If you need a unique identifier, use the CAS Registry Number as well as molecular formula and name.

Further Reading

See also: CAS Registry Number, mole.

Additional definitions from Google and OneLook.



Entry last updated: Sunday, July 3, 2022. This page is copyright 2000-2024 by ILPI. Unauthorized duplication or posting on other web sites is expressly prohibited. Send suggestions, comments, and new entry desires (include the URL if applicable) to us by email.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is believed to be true and accurate, however ILPI makes no guarantees concerning the veracity of any statement. Use of any information on this page is at the reader's own risk. ILPI strongly encourages the reader to consult the appropriate local, state and federal agencies concerning the matters discussed herein.