empirical and molecular formula

Question

A compound contains 40% carbon, 6.7% hydrogen, and 53.3% oxygen by mass. Its empirical formula is:

RankGuru · Accepted Answer

1. **Moles Calculation (assuming 100g)**:
   - $C: 40/12 ≈ 3.33 	ext{ mol}$
   - $H: 6.7/1 = 6.7 	ext{ mol}$
   - $O: 53.3/16 ≈ 3.33 	ext{ mol}$
2. **Atomic Ratio** (Divide by smallest, 3.33):
   - $C = 3.33/3.33 = 1$
   - $H = 6.7/3.33 ≈ 2$
   - $O = 3.33/3.33 = 1$
3. **Result**: Empirical formula is **$CH_2O$**.

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empirical and molecular formula

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