what is the empirical formula for Barium chloride dihydrate
The correct answer and explanation is:
The empirical formula for barium chloride dihydrate is BaCl₂·2H₂O.
Explanation:
To determine the empirical formula, you need to break down the compound into its constituent elements and find the simplest whole-number ratio of the elements present. Here is how to approach it:
- Barium Chloride:
Barium chloride consists of one barium (Ba) atom and two chloride (Cl) ions. Its formula, without considering the water molecules, is BaCl₂. - Water of Crystallization:
The dihydrate part of the compound refers to the presence of two water molecules (H₂O) associated with each formula unit of barium chloride. The term “dihydrate” specifically indicates that there are two water molecules per formula unit of the salt. - Empirical Formula:
In the case of barium chloride dihydrate, the barium chloride part remains as BaCl₂, and the water molecules are included as 2H₂O. The empirical formula does not simplify further because it already reflects the simplest ratio of atoms present in the compound.
Thus, the empirical formula is BaCl₂·2H₂O, showing one barium atom, two chloride ions, and two water molecules per formula unit of barium chloride.
In general, when dealing with hydrates, the number of water molecules is crucial in determining the precise chemical formula, and the formula reflects both the salt and the associated water of crystallization.