Molecular mass' given on MCAT

[jowen88]

Working through my BR gen chem and they seemingly expect us to know molecular weights, is this true on the test?

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[LUCPM]

Based on AAMC FLs I have taken so far, I had to calculate MW for the most part.

 

[GRod18]

you have the periodic table.

 

[diamethuel]

It took me a while to figure this out, but the BR chem books have a periodic table on the back cover.

 

[Handinhand]

Anything nearing 100amu will usually be given to you. CO2, NaOH, HCL, expect to have to calculate them.

 

[DougTPR]

Working through my BR gen chem and they seemingly expect us to know molecular weights, is this true on the test?

When you take the real MCAT, you are not expected to know molecular weights off the top of your head. Click the "Exhibit" button to open the periodic table and calculate them that way. While studying, I would encourage you to leave a periodic table handy but not leave it out in front of you so you will force yourself to remember to get the periodic table when you need it.

It doesn't hurt to have a few elemental molecular weights off the top of your head however... CO2 = 44, N2 = 28, O2 = 32, H2O = 18, NH3 = 17, etc. Small molecules aren't too bad to remember as you are likely doing the calculation quickly in your head from atomic weights of C = 12, N = 14, O = 16, and H = 1.