Molecular formula Molecular formulas go one step beyond the empirical formula in that they express not only the correct ratio but the correct number of atoms in the molecule. This will happen when the molecular formula also expresses the most simple ratio of atoms. The 3D structural formula is an attempt to convey the 3D geometry of the molecule. The triangular bonds depict atoms coming out of the plane and the dashed bonds depict atoms going in back of the plane. The space filling formula includes the relative sizes of the atoms.
Gray spheres are carbon atoms, yellow spheres are hydrogens and the red sphere is oxygen.