Question

The analysis of a compound containing K, P and O showed 55 % K, 15 % P and 30 % O, set up the simplest empirical formula of this compound.

Answer 1

Empirical formula is K₃PO₄.

Step-by-step explanation:

Given data:

Percentage of K = 55%

Percentage of P = 15%

Percentage of O = 30%

Empirical formula = ?

Solution:

Number of gram atoms of K = 55 / 39.098 = 1.41

Number of gram atoms of P = 15 /30.974= 0.48

Number of gram atoms of O = 30 / 15.999 = 1.88

Atomic ratio:

K : P : O

1.41/0.48 : 0.48/0.48 : 1.88/0.48

3 : 1 : 4

K : P : O = 3 : 1 : 4

Empirical formula is K₃PO₄.