Question

An organic compound on analysis gave H = 6.48% and O = 51.42%. Determine its empirical formula if the compound contains 12 atoms of carbon. [C = 12, H = 1, O = 16]

Answer 1

This shows H: O: C:  = 2 : 1 :1

That is empirical formula no. of oxygen atoms = no. of carbon atoms and number of hydrogen atoms is twice the number of oxygen atoms

∴ 2 x oxygen atoms = hydrogen atoms

H = 2 x 12 = 24

Oxygen atoms = carbon atoms = 12 (given)

∴ Empirical formula = C₁₂ H₂₄ O₁₂.