Write the molecular and empirical formulas of the following compounds
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The image you’ve provided displays several chemical compounds. Based on the visual information, I can identify and provide the molecular and empirical formulas for the following compounds:
- Acetylene (C₂H₂):
- Molecular Formula: C₂H₂
- Empirical Formula: CH Acetylene is a hydrocarbon with a triple bond between two carbon atoms, each bonded to a hydrogen atom. Its empirical formula represents the simplest whole-number ratio of elements in the compound. citeturn0search6
- Benzene (C₆H₆):
- Molecular Formula: C₆H₆
- Empirical Formula: CH Benzene is an aromatic hydrocarbon consisting of six carbon atoms forming a ring, each bonded to a hydrogen atom. Despite having a more complex structure, its empirical formula is the same as that of acetylene, indicating the same simplest ratio of carbon to hydrogen atoms. citeturn0search6
- Sodium Chloride (NaCl):
- Molecular Formula: NaCl
- Empirical Formula: NaCl Sodium chloride, commonly known as table salt, consists of one sodium atom bonded to one chlorine atom. In ionic compounds like NaCl, the empirical formula is the same as the molecular formula because it represents the simplest whole-number ratio of ions. citeturn0search6
Understanding Empirical and Molecular Formulas:
- Empirical Formula: Represents the simplest whole-number ratio of elements in a compound. For example, the empirical formula of both acetylene and benzene is CH, indicating a 1:1 ratio of carbon to hydrogen atoms. citeturn0search6
- Molecular Formula: Indicates the actual number of atoms of each element in a molecule. For instance, the molecular formula of acetylene is C₂H₂, showing two carbon atoms and two hydrogen atoms per molecule. citeturn0search6
In summary, while the empirical formula provides the simplest ratio of elements, the molecular formula gives the exact number of atoms of each element in a molecule. Understanding both formulas is essential in chemistry for determining the composition and structure of compounds.
For a more detailed explanation, you might find the following video helpful:
videoEmpirical and Molecular Formulas – YouTubeturn0search3