empirical formula

Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

1.A prescribed or set form; an established rule; a fixed or conventional method in which anything is to be done, arranged, or said. [1913 Webster]

2.(Eccl.) A written confession of faith; a formal statement of foctrines. [1913 Webster]

3.(Math.) A rule or principle expressed in algebraic language; as, the binominal formula. [1913 Webster]

4.(Med.) A prescription or recipe for the preparation of a medicinal compound. [1913 Webster]

5.(Chem.) A symbolic expression (by means of letters, figures, etc.) of the constituents or constitution of a compound. [1913 Webster]

Note: Chemical formul[ae] consist of the abbreviations of the names of the elements, with a small figure at the lower right hand, to denote the number of atoms of each element contained. [1913 Webster]

Empirical formula (Chem.), an expression which gives the simple proportion of the constituents; as, the empirical formula of acetic acid is C2H4O2.

Graphic formula, Rational formula (Chem.), an expression of the constitution, and in a limited sense of the structure, of a compound, by the grouping of its atoms or radicals; as, a rational formula of acetic acid is CH3.(C:O).OH; -- called also structural formula, constitutional formula, etc. See also the formula of Benzene nucleus, under Benzene.

Molecular formula (Chem.), a formula indicating the supposed molecular constitution of a compound. [1913 Webster]

1.Pertaining to, or founded upon, experiment or experience; depending upon the observation of phenomena; versed in experiments. [1913 Webster]

In philosophical language, the term empirical means simply what belongs to or is the product of experience or observation.— Sir W. Hamilton.[1913 Webster]

The village carpenter . . . lays out his work by empirical rules learnt in his apprenticeship.— H. Spencer.[1913 Webster]

2.Depending upon experience or observation alone, without due regard to science and theory; -- said especially of medical practice, remedies, etc.; wanting in science and deep insight; as, empiric skill, remedies. [1913 Webster]

Empirical formula. (Chem.) See under Formula.

Syn: See Transcendental. [1913 Webster]