Question

Calculation: If a compound is 14.40% hydrogen by mass and 85.60% carbon by mass, what is the empirical formula?

Group of answer choices

Answer 1

CH2

Step-by-step explanation:

We are given that a compound is 14.40% hydrogen and 85.60% carbon.

Let the mass of the substance be 100g.

Mass of the hydrogen: 14.40% of 100 = 14.40 g

Mass of the carbon: 85.60% of 100 = 85.60 g

Now, let's find the moles of hydrogen:

`14.40 g*(1 mole)/(1gH) = 14.40 mole`

Moles of carbon:

`85.60g*(1 mol)/(12gC) = 7.13mol`

Let's put these in a ratio and simplify:

7.13 mole C: 14.40 mole H

1 mole C: 2 mole H

Therefore, the empirical formula of this compound is CH2.

Hope this helps!! If you have any questions about my work, please let me know in the comments!