Question: What is the empirical formula of a compound containing 40% carbon, 6.7% hydrogen, and 53.3% oxygen?
Options:
Correct Answer: CH2O
Solution:
Converting percentages to moles gives C: 40/12 = 3.33, H: 6.7/1 = 6.7, O: 53.3/16 = 3.33. The simplest ratio is 1:2:1, giving the empirical formula CH2O.