Equivalent Weight Calculator Formula

Understand the math behind the equivalent weight calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.

Formulas Used

Equivalent Weight

equiv_weight = molar_mass / n_factor

Variables

VariableDescriptionDefault
molar_massMolar Mass(g/mol)98.08
n_factorn-Factor2

How It Works

How to Calculate Equivalent Weight

Formula

Equivalent weight = Molar mass / n-factor

The n-factor depends on the reaction type (acid-base, redox, etc.).

Worked Example

H2SO4 (98.08 g/mol) as a diprotic acid (n=2).

molar_mass = 98.08n_factor = 2
  1. 01Eq. weight = 98.08 / 2
  2. 02Eq. weight = 49.04 g/equiv

Frequently Asked Questions

What is equivalent weight?

The mass of a substance that reacts with or supplies one mole of reactive species (H+, OH-, or electrons).

How do I find the n-factor?

For acids: number of H+ donated. For bases: number of OH-. For salts in precipitation: total charge. For redox: electrons transferred.

Is equivalent weight still used?

Less so in modern chemistry, but it remains useful in titration calculations and water chemistry.

Ready to run the numbers?

Open Equivalent Weight Calculator