Question

A compound of mercury and oxygen is heated in order to decompose the compound. A 4.08 grams sample of mercury oxide upon heating gives off oxygen gas. After heating the mass of mercury metal left behind was 3.78 grams. Calculate the empirical formula of the compound
My and: 1 O2 to 2 Hg ratio but I don't know if it's correct and if so if I should write it as
2HgO ----> 2Hg + O2 or just 2Hg + O2
Please someone who understands help.

Answer 1

Answer:

HgO (empirical formula)

Explanation:

4.08 - 3.78 = 0.3g (oxygen)

$(\frac{4.08}{201}) \: \: \: (\frac{0.3}{16} )$

0.02 : 0.02

0.02/0.02 : 0.02/0.02

1 : 1 (ratio)

HgO ( empirical formula)

2HgO ----> 2Hg + O2 ( your equation correct)