Question

Determine the empirical formula of the following compound if a sample contains 0.104 molK, 0.052 molC, and 0.156 molO. Express your answer as a chemical formula.

Answer 1

`K_2CO_3`

Step-by-step explanation:

Number of moles of K = 0.104 moles

Number of moles of C = 0.052 moles

Number of moles of O = 0.156 moles

The smallest of all is 0.052

So, finding the simplest ratio as:

Number of moles of K = 0.104 / 0.052 = 2

Number of moles of C = 0.052 / 0.052 = 1

Number of moles of O = 0.156 / 0.052 = 3

Thus, the empirical formula is:

`K_2CO_3`