Final answer:
The number of carbon atoms in a molecule can be determined by counting intersections and line ends in its structural formula; in an example provided, a molecule with eight such points contains eight carbon atoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of 'how many carbon atoms each molecule contains' typically pertains to the subject of organic chemistry, specifically regarding the structural representation of organic molecules. For instance, in a molecule illustrated with lines indicating bonds, each intersection or end of a line typically represents a carbon atom. These carbon atoms are understood to form four covalent bonds to satisfy the valency of carbon. If there are eight such intersections, the molecule contains eight carbon atoms. An example provided is the molecule of an organic compound, where the formula C8H16 indicates there are eight carbon atoms.
Another related concept is the use of Avogadro's number (6.022 × 1023) and the molar mass (12.011 g/mol for carbon) to determine moles and atoms in calculations. For example, to find out how many moles of carbon there are in a given number of carbon atoms, the provided question might be referencing the concept of mole to atom conversions using the molar mass of carbon.