What is the molar mass of sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO3.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To calculate the molar mass of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃), we need to sum the atomic masses of all the atoms present in one molecule of the compound. Sodium bicarbonate consists of one sodium (Na) atom, one hydrogen (H) atom, one carbon (C) atom, and three oxygen (O) atoms.
Atomic masses of the elements:
- Sodium (Na): approximately 22.99 g/mol
- Hydrogen (H): approximately 1.01 g/mol
- Carbon (C): approximately 12.01 g/mol
- Oxygen (O): approximately 16.00 g/mol
Calculating the molar mass:
- Sodium (Na):
[
1 \text{ Na} \times 22.99 \text{ g/mol} = 22.99 \text{ g/mol}
] - Hydrogen (H):
[
1 \text{ H} \times 1.01 \text{ g/mol} = 1.01 \text{ g/mol}
] - Carbon (C):
[
1 \text{ C} \times 12.01 \text{ g/mol} = 12.01 \text{ g/mol}
] - Oxygen (O):
[
3 \text{ O} \times 16.00 \text{ g/mol} = 48.00 \text{ g/mol}
]
Now, we add these values together to find the total molar mass of sodium bicarbonate:
[
\text{Molar mass of NaHCO₃} = 22.99 \text{ g/mol} + 1.01 \text{ g/mol} + 12.01 \text{ g/mol} + 48.00 \text{ g/mol} = 84.01 \text{ g/mol}
]
Thus, the molar mass of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) is approximately 84.01 g/mol.
Explanation
The molar mass of a compound is essential for stoichiometric calculations in chemistry, including preparing solutions and calculating yields in chemical reactions. Sodium bicarbonate is a common compound used in various applications, including cooking, baking, and as an antacid. Its molar mass allows chemists and professionals to measure precise quantities for reactions and formulations. Understanding the molar mass is fundamental for laboratory work and industrial processes, as it helps in the accurate calculation of reactants and products in chemical reactions. In practical applications, knowing the molar mass can aid in converting between grams and moles, allowing for more straightforward calculations in both academic and professional settings.