What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
molecular
Example
The molecular structure of water is made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. [molecular: adjective]
Example
Molecular biology is the study of the interactions between molecules within cells. [molecular: adjective]
molar
Example
The molar concentration of the solution was calculated to be 0.1 M. [molar: adjective]
Example
The dentist filled the cavity in my molar tooth. [molar: noun]
Example
The molar heat capacity of a substance is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one mole of the substance by one degree Celsius. [molar: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Molecular is more commonly used than molar in scientific contexts, especially in chemistry and biology. Molar is less common and is mainly used in chemistry, dentistry, and thermodynamics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between molecular and molar?
Both molecular and molar are formal words used in scientific contexts. However, molecular is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings, while molar is more technical and is mainly used in formal contexts.
