The octet rule states that atoms will lose, gain or share electrons to reach the number of valence electrons of the nearest noble gas. The duet rule applies to atoms closest to helium, which only has two valence electrons. Lewis dot diagrams show when valence electrons follow the octet or duet rule. Such formulas are called empirical formulas. An empirical formula does not necessarily represent the actual numbers of atoms present in a molecule of a compound; it represents only the ratio Butene is C4H8, or four times the empirical formula; ethylene is C2H4, or twice the empirical formula.