Question

For the mineral torbernite, Cu(UO2)2(PO4)2⋅8H2O, determine the ratio, by number, of H atoms to O atoms

Answer 1

Answer:

The ratio by number of H atoms to O atoms is: 4:5

Explanation:

The mineral torbernite, : $Cu(UO_2)_2(PO_4)2⋅8H_2O$

Number of oxygen atoms in the mineral :

=$2\times 2+4\times 2+8\times 1=20$

Number of hydrogen atoms in the mineral :

=$8\times 2=16$

The ratio by number of H atoms to O atoms is:

$\frac{16}{20}=\frac{4}{5}=4:5$

Answer 2

H:O = 4:5; (UO₂)₂ = 4 O atoms; (PO₄)₂ = 8 O atoms: 8H₂O = 16 H atoms + 8 O atoms; Total = 16 H atoms + 20 O atoms; H:O = 16:20 = 4:5