general formula

noun1

1. •
   The molecular formula of a class of compounds in which actual numbers are represented by x, n etc., and organic radicals are represented as Rₙ

   • The general formula for saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons is CₙH₂ₙ₊₂ and the molecular formula for propane is C₃H₈
   • The general formula for alcohols is R-OH and the molecular formula for methanol is CH₃-OH