Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the empirical formula for a compound that is 36.86% nitrogen (N) and 63.14% oxygen (O) by mass?
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3. Chemical Reactions
Empirical Formula
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Which of the following could be both a molecular formula and an empirical formula?
A
C2H4O2
B
H2O2
C
O3
D
HCN
E
B2H6
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the difference between molecular and empirical formulas. A molecular formula shows the actual number of atoms of each element in a molecule, while an empirical formula shows the simplest whole-number ratio of these atoms.
Examine each given formula to determine if it can be both a molecular and empirical formula. A formula can be both if it is already in its simplest form, meaning the ratio of atoms cannot be reduced further.
Consider the formula C2H4O2. The ratio of atoms can be simplified to CH2O, so it is not both a molecular and empirical formula.
Consider the formula H2O2. The ratio of atoms can be simplified to HO, so it is not both a molecular and empirical formula.
Consider the formula O3. This formula is already in its simplest form, as the ratio of atoms cannot be reduced further, making it both a molecular and empirical formula.
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