What does the term "empirical formula" refer to?

The term "empirical formula" refers specifically to the simplest whole-number ratio of elements in a compound. This formula provides a way to express the relative proportions of each element without detailing the actual number of atoms in a molecule or the structure of the compound. For example, the empirical formula for glucose (C6H12O6) is CH2O, indicating that in the simplest terms, there are 1 carbon atom for every 2 hydrogen atoms and 1 oxygen atom.

This concept is essential in chemistry as it allows chemists to understand the basic composition of a compound, facilitating further calculations and discussions regarding its properties and reactions. The empirical formula helps in simplifying complex molecular structures to a foundational level, making it clear that the focus is on the ratio of elements rather than their specific arrangements or other more complex details.