Question

Determine the empirical formula for a compound that is 36.86% N and 63.14% O by mass. a) NO b) NO2 c) NO3 d) N2O3 e) N2O

Answer 1

N2O3

Step-by-step explanation:

The empirical formula of a compound can be calculated as follows:

N = 36.86% = 36.86g

O = 63.14% = 63.14g

First, we divide each value by its molar mass as follows:

N = 36.86g ÷ 14g/mol = 2.63mol

O = 63.14g ÷ 16g/mol = 3.95mol

Next, we divide by the smallest mole value;

N = 2.63mol = 2.63 = 1

O = 3.95mol ÷ 2.63 = 1.5

We multiply each value by 2 to get an approximate whole number ratio i.e. N = 2, O = 3