For example: A substance contains 10% X 18.7% Y and 71.3% Z (XYandZ being the elements) what is the empirical formula? I chose not to write the actual question cause this is homework and I don't wanna cheat.
2007-12-09 01:03:46 · 2 answers · asked by Ethereal 4 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
You have weight ratios, but what you want is atom ratios.
Divide 10% by atomic mass of element X and so on. That gives you relative numbers of atoms.
Divide through by the smallest number. you should get whole numbers, or decimal numbers close to simple fractions (e.g. 1.48 for 1 1/2)
Finally, multiply through as necessary to get rid of the fractions.
That's all! Good luck!
2007-12-09 01:33:12 · answer #1 · answered by Facts Matter 7 · 5⤊ 0⤋
This is not cheating? Anyway, it's too simple for my complex mind to bother with.
2007-12-09 09:06:01 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 7⤋