Order of Molecules

[LedaKnowles2E]

When we're told that a compound is made of some percentages of elements, like C, O, H, and N, and then we calculate the empirical and molecular formulas, how do we know which order to put the elements in the formula? Like if the ratios are 6 C to 4 O to 1 H to 2 N, how do we know if it's C6O4HN2 or C6HN2O4 or any other iteration?

[Aaron Ang 4H]

In order to write a chemical formula, you start off by listing the carbon atoms followed by the hydrogen atoms and then alphabetical order.

[505211599]

Usually, if the problem gives the order of the elements, I would just follow that.

[Yiting_Gong_4L]

I follow the order that is given in the problem.

[uhedlund]

Generally, the order of atoms should be in alphabetical order.