Question

pyrite is a mineral composed of 46.5 mass % iron and 53.5 mass % sulfur. determine the empirical formula for calcocite.

Answer 1

The empirical formula for pyrite is FeS2.

HOW TO CALCULATE EMPIRICAL FORMULA:

• 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.

Learn more at: brainly.com/question/14044066?referrer=searchResults