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Multiple Choice
Given the skeletal structure of pentane, how many hydrogen atoms are present in the molecule?
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Verified step by step guidance
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Identify the molecular formula of pentane. Pentane is an alkane with 5 carbon atoms, so its general formula is \(\mathrm{C}_5\mathrm{H}_{2n+2}\), where \(n\) is the number of carbon atoms.
Substitute \(n = 5\) into the alkane formula to find the number of hydrogen atoms: \(\mathrm{H} = 2 \times 5 + 2\).
Calculate the number of hydrogen atoms using the formula: \(\mathrm{H} = 10 + 2\).
Conclude that the total number of hydrogen atoms in pentane is the sum obtained from the previous step.
Verify that the skeletal structure of pentane corresponds to the molecular formula \(\mathrm{C}_5\mathrm{H}_{12}\), confirming the number of hydrogen atoms.