Question

A compound is 44.82% Potassium, 18.39% Sulfur, and 36.79% Oxygen. Write the empirical formula and name the compound.

Answer 1

Answer:

Empirical formula = K₂SO₄

The name of the compound is Potassium tetraoxosulfate (vi)

Explanation:

Percentage composition of the elements:

Potassium = 44.82%

Sulfur = 18.39%

Oxygen = 36.79%

Mole ratio of the elements:

Potassium = 44.82/39 =1.15

Sulfur = 18.39/32 = 0.57

Oxygen = 36.79/16 = 2.29

Dividing by the smallest ratio in order to obtain the simplest ratio

Potassium = 1.15/0.57 =2

Sulfur = 0.57/0.57 = 1

Oxygen = 2.29/0.57 = 4

Therefore, the mole ratio of Potassium : Sulfur : Oxygen = 2:1:4

Empirical formula = K₂SO₄

The name of the compound is Potassium tetraoxosulfate (vi)