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  • Formula Weight vs. Molar Mass: Understanding the Relationship
    The formula weight and molar mass of a substance are essentially the same thing, just expressed in different units.

    * Formula weight is the sum of the atomic weights of all the atoms in a chemical formula, expressed in atomic mass units (amu).

    * Molar mass is the mass of one mole of a substance, expressed in grams per mole (g/mol).

    Here's the key connection:

    * 1 amu is equal to 1 g/mol.

    Therefore:

    * The numerical value of the formula weight and molar mass is identical.

    * The difference is only in the units used.

    Example:

    * The formula weight of water (H₂O) is 18 amu (1 + 1 + 16 = 18).

    * The molar mass of water is 18 g/mol.

    So, you can use the terms formula weight and molar mass interchangeably as long as you are aware of the units being used.

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