Finding the least molar mass of organic compound having molar mass > 100

In summary, The question asks for the least molar mass of an organic compound with a molar mass greater than 100 and containing only C, H, and N. The percentage of C is 6 times the percentage of H, and the sum of the percentages of C and H is 1.5 times the percentage of N. Solving the given equations gives a value of 40% for N, but there will be multiple possible molecules with different molar masses. The question asks for the molecule with the least molar mass, which can be found by solving the equations and listing all possible molecules to find a pattern.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



In an organic compound of molar mass > 100 containing only C, H , N, the percentage of C is 6 times the percentage of H while the sum of the percentages of C and H is 1.5 times the percentage of N. What is the least molar mass?

Homework Equations



C% + N% + H%= 100%
therefore, 1.5N%+ N%= 100%

The Attempt at a Solution


From the above equation that I manage to calculate, N% should be 40%, the next step that I want to take is just not coming exactly to me, though I had a rough idea from the hints given in the question, but finally didn't actually manage to get the exact answer.
 
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  • #2
Three unknowns, two equations.

Which means that you won't be able to solve this exactly. There won't be one unique solution to the percentages of the elements. It can stand for a variety of molecules, each with a different molar mass and HENCE the question asks you to go for the molecule with the least molecular mass.

1) Solve linear equations as much as you can
2) When you are done with the solving part, list out ALL possible molecules, you'll find a pattern to them and you'll find that they are many.
3) But the least one will stand out!
 

1. What is the definition of molar mass?

Molar mass is the mass of one mole of a substance, measured in grams per mole (g/mol). It is calculated by adding up the atomic masses of each element in a substance.

2. How do you determine the molar mass of an organic compound?

To determine the molar mass of an organic compound, you must first determine the chemical formula of the compound. Then, you can use the periodic table to find the atomic masses of each element in the formula and add them together to find the molar mass.

3. What is meant by "least molar mass"?

The "least molar mass" refers to the smallest molar mass among all possible combinations of elements in a compound. In other words, it is the lowest possible mass for a given chemical formula.

4. Why is it important to find the least molar mass?

Finding the least molar mass of an organic compound is important because it allows us to accurately calculate other properties of the compound, such as density and molecular weight. It also helps in identifying the compound and understanding its chemical properties.

5. Is there a specific method for finding the least molar mass of an organic compound?

Yes, the most common method for finding the least molar mass is by using the empirical formula. This involves determining the simplest whole number ratio of elements in a compound and using that to calculate the molar mass. Other methods, such as using mass spectrometry, can also be used to find the molar mass of organic compounds.

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