Explanation:
The states may differ depending on the reactions
Let us assume that there is a 100g sample of Opal. The masses of each element will be:
29.2g Si
33.3g O
37.5g H2O
Now we divide each constituent's mass by its Mr to get the moles present
Si: (29.2 / 28) = 1.04
O: (33.3 / 16) = 2.08
H2O: (37.5 / 18) = 2.08
Now we divide by the smallest number and obtain:
Si: 1
O: 2
H2O: 2
Thus, the empirical formula of Opal is:
SiO2 . 2H2O
Hydrogen Bonding will effect the boiling point the most. Let's take an example Butane a four carbon unsaturated organic compound with molecular formula C₄H₁₀ and boiling point -1 °C.
H₃C-CH₂-CH₂-CH₃
Now, replace one hydrogen on terminal carbon with -OH group and convert it into Butanol.
H₃C-CH₂-CH₂-CH₂-OH
The Boiling point of Butanol is 117.7 °C. This increase in boiling point is due to formation of hydrogen bondings between the molecules of Butanol.
