Question

Determine the empirical formula for the compound represented by each molecular formula.

Part A
N2O4
Express your answer as a chemical formula.


Part B
C5H12
Express your answer as a chemical formula.


Part C
C4H10
Express your answer as a chemical formula.

..... (small subscripts)

Answer 1

The empirical formula for AN2O4 is NO2. The empirical formula for BC5H12 is B1C5. The empirical formula for CC4H10 is C2H5.

Step-by-step explanation:

The empirical formula is a formula that shows the elements in a compound in their lowest whole-number ratio. To determine the empirical formula, we need the molecular formula. For Part A, the molecular formula AN2O4 gives us the ratio of elements. Since there is only 1 nitrogen and 2 oxygen atoms, the empirical formula is NO2.

For Part B, the molecular formula BC5H12 gives us the ratio of elements. Since there is only 1 boron and 5 carbon atoms, the empirical formula is B1C5.

For Part C, the molecular formula CC4H10 gives us the ratio of elements. Since there is only 2 carbon and 5 hydrogen atoms, the empirical formula is C2H5.