The empirical formula represents the simplest whole number ratio of constituents element of a compound. The empirical formula of pyrite can be calculated as follows:
46.5 mass % Fe = 46.5g of Fe
53.5 mass % S = 53.5g of S
Next, we divide each element's mass value by its molar mass
Fe = 46.5g ÷ 56g/mol = 0.83mol
S = 53.5g ÷ 32g/mol = 1.67mol
Next, we divide each mole value by the smallest (0.83mol)
Fe = 0.83mol ÷ 0.83 = 1
S = 1.67mol ÷ 0.83 = 2.014
Approximately, the ratio of Fe to S is 1:2. Therefore, the empirical formula of pyrite is FeS2.
