Calculate the molecular weight of 1 mole of ethanol (C2H5OH). Round the atomic weights to the nearest whole number.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Calculation of the Molecular Weight of Ethanol (C₂H₅OH)
To determine the molecular weight of ethanol (C₂H₅OH), we sum the atomic weights of each atom in the molecular formula:
- Carbon (C) = 12 g/mol
- Hydrogen (H) = 1 g/mol
- Oxygen (O) = 16 g/mol
Now, calculating the molecular weight:
[
(2 \times 12) + (6 \times 1) + (1 \times 16) = 24 + 6 + 16 = 46 \text{ g/mol}
]
Explanation:
The molecular weight of a substance represents the sum of the atomic weights of all atoms in one molecule. Ethanol, a widely used alcohol in beverages, fuels, and disinfectants, consists of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
- Carbon Contribution:
Ethanol has two carbon atoms, and since each carbon weighs 12 g/mol, their total contribution is 24 g/mol. - Hydrogen Contribution:
Ethanol contains six hydrogen atoms. Since each hydrogen weighs 1 g/mol, their total contribution is 6 g/mol. - Oxygen Contribution:
Ethanol has one oxygen atom, and since oxygen weighs 16 g/mol, its contribution is 16 g/mol.
By adding all these contributions, we get a molecular weight of 46 g/mol.
Importance of Molecular Weight:
- Chemistry & Stoichiometry: The molecular weight allows chemists to determine how much of a substance is needed for reactions.
- Pharmaceuticals & Medicine: Knowing molecular weight helps in drug formulation and dosage calculation.
- Industrial Applications: Ethanol is widely used as a fuel, solvent, and antiseptic, and its molecular weight is crucial in manufacturing processes.
Now, I will generate an image representing the molecular structure of ethanol.
Here is the molecular structure of ethanol (C₂H₅OH), showing the arrangement of atoms and bonds in a clear, educational style. Let me know if you need any modifications or further explanations!