Given the following gases: O_2, N_2, CO_2, and CH_4, which one has the largest molar mass?

• A. CH_4
• B. N_2
• C. CO_2
• D. O_2

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the molar mass of each gas by summing the atomic masses of the atoms in their molecular formulas. Use the approximate atomic masses: C = 12 g/mol, O = 16 g/mol, N = 14 g/mol, H = 1 g/mol.
2. Calculate the molar mass of CH_4 (methane): 1 carbon atom and 4 hydrogen atoms, so molar mass = 12 + (4 \times 1).
3. Calculate the molar mass of N_2 (nitrogen gas): 2 nitrogen atoms, so molar mass = 2 \times 14.
4. Calculate the molar mass of O_2 (oxygen gas): 2 oxygen atoms, so molar mass = 2 \times 16.
5. Calculate the molar mass of CO_2 (carbon dioxide): 1 carbon atom and 2 oxygen atoms, so molar mass = 12 + (2 \times 16). Compare all the molar masses to determine which is the largest.