The empirical formula of the compound is C₄H₅O₃.
<u>Explanation</u>:
If hydrogen % = 5.98823, the Sum of C+O = 94.01177% or 47.005885% each
The original mass of 300 g is not important
C = 47.005885 / 12.011 = 3.913569
H = 5.98823 / 1.008 = 5.94070
O = 47.005885 / 15.999 = 2.93805
Divide by the smallest number:
C =1.33
H = 2.022
O = 1
Multiply through by 3
C = 4
H =6
O = 3
The empirical formula of a compound = C₄H₆O₃
Do not be confused by the 300 g. It is totally irrelevant to the question because you are dealing with % amounts. It would only have been of importance if you were given some mass values.
