Multiple Choice
A compound contains 31.2% calcium, 28.6% sulfur, and 40.2% oxygen by mass. What is the empirical formula of this compound?
31
views
3. Chemical Reactions
Empirical Formula
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What is the empirical formula for a compound with the molecular formula C_6H_{12}Cl_2O_2?
A
C_6H_{12}Cl_2O_2
B
C_3H_6ClO
C
CH_2ClO
D
C_2H_4ClO
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the number of atoms of each element in the molecular formula: C = 6, H = 12, Cl = 2, O = 2.
Determine the simplest whole-number ratio of atoms by dividing each subscript by the greatest common divisor of all subscripts. Here, divide each by 2.
Calculate the ratio: C = 6 ÷ 2 = 3, H = 12 ÷ 2 = 6, Cl = 2 ÷ 2 = 1, O = 2 ÷ 2 = 1.
Write the empirical formula using these simplified ratios: C_3H_6ClO.
Verify that the empirical formula represents the simplest ratio of atoms and is consistent with the molecular formula.
2:26mWatch next
Master Empirical vs Molecular Formula with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Empirical Formula practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations