Multiple Choice
What is the empirical formula for a compound that contains 50.05% sulfur and 49.95% oxygen by mass?
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3. Chemical Reactions
Empirical Formula
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What is the simplest whole-number ratio of atoms in a molecule or formula unit called?
A
Molecular formula
B
Empirical formula
C
Ionic formula
D
Structural formula
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the problem is asking for the name of the simplest whole-number ratio of atoms in a molecule or formula unit.
Recall that the molecular formula shows the actual number of atoms of each element in a molecule, which may not be the simplest ratio.
Recognize that the empirical formula represents the simplest whole-number ratio of atoms in a compound.
Note that the ionic formula typically refers to the formula unit of an ionic compound, which may or may not be in the simplest ratio.
Understand that the structural formula shows the arrangement of atoms in a molecule, not just the ratio.
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