Question

What is the molecular formula of gold?

Answer 1

Hint: A molecular formula is the representation of the atoms of the elements present in any compound. Each element in the periodic table is given a symbol that defines that element for the ease of recognizing them. These elements have the first or first two letters of their names as symbols that represent them in the molecular formula.

Complete answer:
A molecular formula represents various atoms in their respective quantities in a molecule. Therefore, a molecular formula is only written for molecules containing more than one atom of same or different elements. We have been given to find the molecular formula of gold.
Gold is a noble metal of the d block with atomic number 79 in the periodic table. It is not represented using a molecular formula as it is an atom and not a molecule. Rather it is represented by its symbol in its neutral state. Gold is named after a Latin word called Aurum which means shining dawn. So, it has a symbol Au, which is the first two letters of the word Aurum.
Hence, gold is represented in molecular formulas as Au.

Note:
Gold is a noble metal as it is used to make ornaments. It is not very reactive. It possesses 2 different oxidation states as (I) called auric and (III) called aurum. It has a special property of being malleable and ductile, that is it can be converted into thin sheets due to its malleability and can be drawn into thin wires due to its ductility.