Final answer:
The mass fractions of individual elements in FeCl₃ are 34.45% for iron (Fe) and 65.55% for chlorine (Cl), adding up to 100% when rounded.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the mass fractions of individual elements in FeCl₄, first calculate the formula mass of the compound by adding together the atomic masses of iron (Fe) and chlorine (Cl). The atomic mass of iron (Fe) is approximately 55.85 amu, and the atomic mass of chlorine (Cl) is approximately 35.45 amu. However, FeCl₄ does not exist as a stable compound under normal conditions, and we may presume the student meant FeCl₃. Considering FeCl₃, the calculation is as follows:
- Fe: 1 x 55.85 amu = 55.85 amu
- Cl: 3 x 35.45 amu = 106.35 amu
Add these together to get the formula mass:
FeCl₃: 55.85 amu + 106.35 amu = 162.2 amu
Next, calculate the mass fraction for each element by dividing the atomic mass of the element by the formula mass and multiplying by 100 to get a percentage:
- For Fe in FeCl₃: (55.85 amu / 162.2 amu) x 100 = 34.45%
- For Cl in FeCl₃: (106.35 amu / 162.2 amu) x 100 = 65.55%
Note that these percentages sum to equal 100.00% when appropriately rounded.