Question

The empirical formula of a compound is found to be P2O5. Experiments show that the molar mass of the compound is 426g/mol. What is the molecular formula of the compound?

Answer: P4O10

Answer 1

Molecular formula = P₄O₁₀

Step-by-step explanation:

Given data:

Empirical formula of compound = P₂O₅

Molar mass of compound = 426 g/mol

Molecular formula = ?

Solution:

Molecular formula:

Molecular formula = n (empirical formula)

n = molar mass of compound / empirical formula mass

Empirical formula mass= P₂O₅ = 283.89 g/mol

n = 426 g/mol / 283.89 g/mol

n = 2

Molecular formula = n (empirical formula)

Molecular formula = 2 (P₂O₅ )

Molecular formula = P₄O₁₀