Degree of Unsaturation (Index of Hydrogen Deficiency) (DU = (2C + 2 + N − H − X) / 2)

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DU = (2C + 2 + N − H − X) / 2

What each symbol means

SymbolWhat it stands for
CNumber of carbon atoms
HNumber of hydrogen atoms
NNumber of nitrogen atoms
XNumber of halogen atoms (count like H for saturation)

When to use this

Neutral molecules; each ring or π bond adds 1 DU. O and S omitted from numerator. Adjust for charges if given.