Final answer:
The DOU formula is used to determine the number of rings or double bonds present in a molecule. It takes into account the number of carbons, hydrogens, and nitrogens in the compound.
Step-by-step explanation:
The formula for the Degree of Unsaturation (DOU) is used to determine the number of rings or double bonds present in a molecule. The formula works by using the information about the hydrogen deficiency in a compound. The DOU formula takes into account the number of carbons (C), hydrogens (H), and nitrogens (N) in the compound.
DOU = (2C + 2 + N - H) ÷ 2
For example, let's say we have a molecule with 6 carbons, 12 hydrogens, and 1 nitrogen. Plugging these values into the formula, we get:
DOU = (2(6) + 2 + 1 - 12) ÷ 2
DOU = (12 + 2 + 1 - 12) ÷ 2
DOU = 3 ÷ 2
DOU = 1.5