# Glucose has the formula C₆H₁₂O₆. State what is meant by the term relative formula mass and describe the steps you would take to calculate the relative formula mass of glucose. Use the relative atomic masses: H = 1, C = 12, O = 16.

> Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Chemistry (4CH1) — 1.4 Relative formula mass · Describe · 4 marks

> Glucose is a sugar found in many fruits. It has the molecular formula C₆H₁₂O₆.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Relative formula mass is the sum of the relative atomic masses of all the atoms in the formula (of the compound).
2. Multiply the relative atomic mass of each element by the number of atoms of that element in the formula (e.g. C: 12 × 6 = 72; H: 1 × 12 = 12; O: 16 × 6 = 96).
3. Add together the values for all elements (72 + 12 + 96).
4. Relative formula mass of glucose = 180.

## Key terms

- [relative formula mass](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/relative-formula-mass)
- [relative atomic mass](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/relative-atomic-mass)
- [formula](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/formula)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Chemistry (4CH1)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/glucose-has-the-formula-c-h-o-state-b2705f0c) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.