To convert from molecules to moles, it is essential to use Avogadro's number, which is approximately \(6.022 \times 10^{23}\) molecules per mole. This conversion is a fundamental aspect of dimensional analysis, where we set up our calculation to ensure that units cancel appropriately, leading us to the desired outcome.
In this example, we start with \(8.33 \times 10^{37}\) molecules of chlorine gas (\(Cl_2\)). To find the number of moles, we set up the conversion as follows:
Given amount: \(8.33 \times 10^{37}\) molecules of \(Cl_2\)
Conversion factor: \(\frac{1 \text{ mole of } Cl_2}{6.022 \times 10^{23} \text{ molecules of } Cl_2}\)
We arrange the calculation to ensure that the units of molecules cancel out:
\[\text{Moles of } Cl_2 = \frac{8.33 \times 10^{37} \text{ molecules of } Cl_2}{6.022 \times 10^{23} \text{ molecules of } Cl_2}\]
When you perform this calculation, it is crucial to use parentheses in your calculator to avoid errors. The result of this calculation yields:
\[\text{Moles of } Cl_2 \approx 1.38 \times 10^{14} \text{ moles of } Cl_2\]
This demonstrates the process of converting from molecules to moles using Avogadro's number as a conversion factor. Remember, whenever you are converting between moles and particles, Avogadro's number will be a key component in your calculations.