What is the difference between expanded and condensed structural formulas?

1 Answer
Aug 4, 2018

Expanded structural formula shows all of the bonds in the compound.

Condensed structural formula omits most or all of the bonds.

Explanation:

Expanded structural formula shows all of the bonds connecting all of the atoms in the compound.
ChemSimplified.com - Expanded structural formula

Condensed structural formula shows all atoms, but omits some or all of the vertical and horizontal bonds. It makes it easier to write the formula in a line.

Here are the different ways condensed structural formula can be represented:

ChemSimplified.com - Condensed structural formula; grouped
ChemSimplified.com - Condensed structural formula; omit horizontal bonds
ChemSimplified.com - Condensed structural formula; omit vertical and horizontal bonds

Here's a video that shows how to draw structural formula for organic compounds - Expanded, Condensed and Skeletal form: