1. A statement in algebraic form representing a mathematical relationship of variables. An empirical formula is based on experimental results and not necessarily on the laws of physics.
2. The use of symbols to present a chemical compound in which the symbols represent elements. Subscripts are used to represent the number of atoms. For example, the molecular formula for ethanol is C2H5OH, which is a molecular compound that has two carbon atoms, six hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom. See chemical formula.