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   Molecular Formula
  The molecular formula shows the number of carbon and hydrogen atoms in a compound. If we are given the compound name, we can find the molecular formula based on   Reffy, Tables P and Q (p. 7). Here’s how:
1. Find the prefix (beginning of the molecule name) on Table P, which will tell you how
many carbon atoms the compound has.
2. Then, look at the end of the molecule name.
Š If it ends in -ane, it is an alkane and we will use the general formula for alkanes. Š If it ends in -ene, it is an alkene and we will use the general formula for alkenes. Š If it ends in -yne, it is an alkyne and we will use the general formula for alkynes.
3. Solve the appropriate general formula (Table Q).
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