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Chemical formula
Symbolic representation showing the elements in a substance and their numbers or ratios.
Covalent substance
Forms when non-metal atoms share electrons. It may form small molecules (like $CO_2$) or giant covalent structures (like diamond).
Empirical formula
Shows the simplest whole-number ratio of atoms in a compound.
Ionic compound
Formed from positive and negative ions (usually metal + non-metal, or metal + polyatomic ion) held together in a giant ionic lattice.
Molecular formula
Shows the actual number of each type of atom in a single molecule (common for covalent substances).
Polyatomic ions
A polyatomic ion is a group of atoms bonded together that carries an overall charge and behaves as one unit in ionic compounds.