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In a molecular formula, the subscript tells us the number of atoms of the element that are present in one molecule of the compound. For instance,H2O tells us that there are two hydrogen and one oxygen atom per molecule of water. As for ionic compounds, it tells us the number of atoms present in one formula unit of the compound.

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A subscript tells us the number of atoms of that element present in the compound. It indicates the ratio of elements in the compound and is used to balance chemical equations.

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Q: What does a subscript tell us about an element in a compound?
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What do the subscript and coefficent in a chemical equation tell us?

The subscript in a chemical equation tells us the ratio of atoms of each element present in a compound. The coefficient tells us the number of molecules or formula units involved in the reaction.


Where are subscripts found and what do they tell you?

A subscript is a number that is written half a space below the line and which looks like this: H2O (this compares to a superscript which is written half a space above the line, looking like this: 1012). In a chemical formula, the subscript tells you the number of atoms of a particular element in a molecule. For the example that I gave, which is the very familiar formula of the water molecule, the subscript tells us that there are two hydrogen atoms in the molecule (H is for hydrogen).


When changing a subscript in a correctly written chemical formula it will change what?

Changing a subscript in a correctly written chemical formula will change the ratio of atoms of each element present in the compound. This alteration can significantly impact the stoichiometry and properties of the compound. It is crucial to ensure that the subscripts accurately represent the composition of the compound.


In the chemical formula CO2 t6he subscript 2 shows which of the following..?

The subscript 2 in CO2 indicates that there are two oxygen atoms present in the carbon dioxide molecule. This number tells us the ratio of atoms in the compound.


What does the formula of a substance tell you?

The formula of a substance provides information about the types and numbers of atoms present in that substance. It gives the chemical composition of the compound, allowing us to understand its properties and behavior. The formula is critical for identifying and categorizing different substances in chemistry.