What is the empirical formula of benzene, $C_6{H}_6$?

• A. $C_6{H}_6$
• B. $C_3{H}_3$
• C. $C_{2}H$
• D. $CH$

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the molecular formula of benzene, which is given as \(C_6H_6\).
2. To find the empirical formula, determine the simplest whole-number ratio of atoms in the compound.
3. Divide the number of carbon atoms and hydrogen atoms by their greatest common divisor. Here, both 6 (carbons) and 6 (hydrogens) can be divided by 6.
4. Perform the division: \(\frac{6}{6} = 1\) for carbon and \(\frac{6}{6} = 1\) for hydrogen.
5. Write the empirical formula using the simplified ratio, which is \(CH\).