Question

What is the empirical formula of a compound containing carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in the ratio 14:42:84?

Answer 1

Answer:

D. CH₃O₆

Explanation:

• We are given the ratio of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen in a compound as 14: 42 : 84

We are supposed to determine the empirical formula of the compound;

• We need to know what is an empirical formula;

• An empirical formula of a compound is a formula that shows the simplest whole number ratio of elements in a compound.

In this case;

The ratio of C : H : O is 14 : 42 : 84

• Note, this is not the simplest ratio.

But we can simplify further to get the simplest whole number ratio;

• Therefore, 14 : 42 : 84  is equal to 1 : 3 : 6

• Thus, the simplest whole number ratio of C : H : O in the compound is 1 : 3 : 6

• Therefore, the empirical formula of the compound is CH₃O₆