Propane has the chemical formula C_3H_8. How many grams of carbon are present in 88 grams of propane?

• A. 24 grams
• B. 88 grams
• C. 72 grams
• D. 36 grams

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Determine the molar mass of propane (C\_3H\_8) by summing the atomic masses of all atoms: 3 carbons and 8 hydrogens. Use atomic masses approximately 12.01 g/mol for carbon and 1.008 g/mol for hydrogen. The formula is: \(Molar\ mass = (3 \times 12.01) + (8 \times 1.008)\).
2. Calculate the mass of carbon in one mole of propane by multiplying the number of carbon atoms by the atomic mass of carbon: \(Mass\ of\ C = 3 \times 12.01\) g.
3. Find the fraction of the molar mass of propane that is due to carbon by dividing the mass of carbon by the molar mass of propane: \(Fraction\ of\ C = \frac{Mass\ of\ C}{Molar\ mass\ of\ propane}\).
4. Use the fraction of carbon to find the mass of carbon in 88 grams of propane by multiplying the fraction by 88 g: \(Mass\ of\ C\ in\ 88\ g = Fraction\ of\ C \times 88\) g.
5. Interpret the result as the grams of carbon present in 88 grams of propane.