Molecular Weight and Weight Percent

The molecular weight (or more formally molar mass) of a compound is the sum of all the molar masses, in atomic mass units, of the elements in the compound.  To calculate the molecular weight, the correct formula of the compound and the molar masses of each atom must be accurately known.
This program is mainly a time-saving utility for calculating molecular weights and percent composition, which is defined as the percent by mass of each element present in the compound.  It is important to note that the process of calculating molecular weight and percent composition is one in which all people trained in any aspect of chemistry must be proficient.
 
 

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INSTRUCTIONS

1.  Enter the molecular formula of interest in the text box at the top of the screen.
     Enter the formula using the OWL-syntax for specifying chemical formulae. The OWL-syntax has the following rules:

         

2.  To calculate the formula weight and percent composition, click on the Calculate button.
Last modified: April 13, 2000