Question

A compound on analysis was found to contain c=34.6%,h 3.85% and o 61.55%.Calculate it's empirical formula

Answer 1

Element C:

Percentage : 34.6

Atomic mass : 12

Gram atoms : 34.6÷12=2.88

Molar ratio : 2.88÷2.88=1

simplest whole number ratio : 3

Element H:

Percentage : 3.85

Atomic mass : 1

Gram atoms : 3.85÷1=3.85

Molar ratio : 3.85÷2.88=1.335

simplest whole number ratio : 4

Element O:

Percentage : 61.55

Atomic mass : 16

Gram atoms : 61.55÷16=3.85

Molar ratio : 3.85÷2.88=1.335

simplest whole number ratio : 4

Therefore the simplest whole number ratios of the different elements are:  C : H : O :: 3 : 4 : 4 and the empirical formula of the compound=C₃H₄O₄.

Answer 2

A compound on analysis was found to contain c=34.6%,h=3.85,and o=61.55%. calculate its empirical formula