The chemical formula for melanin is C18H10N2O4.
Understanding Melanin's Formula
Melanin, a pigment found in most organisms, has a complex molecular structure. The simplified chemical formula, C18H10N2O4, represents the basic atomic composition of its building blocks. This formula highlights the presence of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), nitrogen (N), and oxygen (O) atoms in a specific ratio. Here's a breakdown:
Table: Melanin Chemical Composition
| Element | Symbol | Number of Atoms |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon | C | 18 |
| Hydrogen | H | 10 |
| Nitrogen | N | 2 |
| Oxygen | O | 4 |
Molar Mass of Melanin
The molar mass of melanin is 318 g/mole, meaning that every 318 grams of melanin contains approximately 6.02 x 1023 molecules of melanin.
Key Takeaways
- Melanin is an important pigment in biological systems.
- The formula C18H10N2O4 is a simplified representation of its chemical structure.
- The molar mass is 318 g/mole.
