Calculate the molecular weight of Al2(SO4)3.14.3H2O

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the molecular weight of Al2(SO4)3·14.3H2O, focusing on the interpretation of the fractional water of hydration and its implications for the total number of atoms in the compound.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question how to interpret the notation "14.3H2O," suggesting it may indicate an average number of water molecules per formula unit.
  • There is a proposal that if 14.3 water molecules are considered, this would imply 28.6 hydrogen atoms and 14.3 oxygen atoms.
  • Others express uncertainty about whether fractional atoms can be counted in the molecular weight calculation, leading to confusion about the total number of hydrogen and oxygen atoms.
  • One participant suggests that there may be an error in calculating the total number of oxygen and hydrogen atoms based on the fractional water content.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on how to handle the fractional water in the molecular weight calculation, with multiple interpretations and calculations presented without resolution.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the treatment of fractional water molecules in molecular weight calculations, and participants express differing views on whether to include fractional atoms in the final count.

dss975599
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Homework Statement



Calculate the molecular weight of Al2(SO4)3.14.3H2O

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



May i know how to do this ? Does it mean 14*3 = 42(H20) , where there re 84H , 42O atoms ?
 
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dss975599 said:

Homework Statement



Calculate the molecular weight of Al2(SO4)3.14.3H2O

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



May i know how to do this ? Does it mean 14*3 = 42(H20) , where there re 84H , 42O atoms ?
In one molecule there will be always integral number of water molecules, may be either 14 or 15. but 14.3 may be the molecules per molecule on the average. So while calculating you can take care of this.
 
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Let'sthink said:
In one molecule there will be always integral number of water molecules, may be either 14 or 15. but 14.3 may be the molecules per molecule on the average. So while calculating you can take care of this.
Does it means there are 14.3 (H20 ) atoms ?
Which means 28.6 H atoms and 14.3 O atoms ?
 
dss975599 said:
Does it means there are 14.3 (H20 ) atoms ?
Which means 28.6 H atoms and 14.3 O atoms ?
yes.
 
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Let'sthink said:
yes.
Does it mean there are
2Al
3S
14.3H
4(3) + 14.3(2) = 40.6 O atoms ??
 
dss975599 said:
Does it mean there are
2Al
3S
14.3H
4(3) + 14.3(2) = 40.6 O atoms ??
There is some mistake in calculating O and H atome.
 
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dss975599 said:
Which means 28.6 H atoms and 14.3 O atoms ?
That was correct. modify your latest thinking to be in tune with this.
 
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