Definition of structural formula in US English:
structural formula
nounˈstrək(t)SH(ə)rəl ˈfôrmyələ
Chemistry A formula which shows the arrangement of atoms in the molecule of a compound.
Compare with empirical formula, molecular formula
Example sentencesExamples
- To provide the full molecular formula, the structural formula must also be considered.
- Butene and ethene have the same empirical formula CH 2 but different molecular and structural formulas.
- Two years later he ascertained its structural formula.
- Like the molecular formula, the structural formula of a substance gives the exact number of atoms of each element per molecule.
- At its most basic the structural formula is the chemical formula showing the bonds that are present.