Which of the following does the chemical (molecular) formula of a compound indicate?

• A. The arrangement of atoms within the molecule
• B. The types and exact number of atoms of each element in a molecule of the compound
• C. The physical properties of the compound
• D. The total mass of the compound

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a chemical (molecular) formula represents the composition of a molecule by showing the types of atoms present and the exact number of each type.
2. Recognize that the molecular formula does not provide information about how atoms are arranged or bonded within the molecule; that information is given by structural formulas or models.
3. Note that physical properties of a compound, such as melting point or boiling point, are not indicated by the molecular formula but are determined experimentally.
4. Understand that the total mass of the compound is related to its molar mass, which can be calculated from the molecular formula by summing the atomic masses of all atoms present.
5. Conclude that the molecular formula specifically indicates the types and exact number of atoms of each element in a molecule of the compound.