[Chemistry]Composition of elements in empirical formula

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the determination of the empirical formula of a compound based on its composition and the role of specific elements in this process. It includes considerations of how certain elements, like silver, are treated differently in empirical formula calculations, particularly in the context of a homework problem.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a homework problem involving the determination of the empirical formula from given masses of a compound and its products.
  • Another participant suggests that the exclusion of silver from the empirical formula is based on the assumption that silver nitrate is used to determine halogens and that oxygen is not present in the compound.
  • A later reply questions whether silver can be included in the empirical formula and asks about any restrictions on the composition of elements in empirical formulas.
  • One participant responds generally that there are no restrictions on the composition of elements in empirical formulas.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion contains some agreement on the assumptions made regarding the determination of halogens and the role of oxygen, but it also raises questions about the inclusion of silver in empirical formulas, indicating that multiple views remain on this topic.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the assumptions regarding the presence of oxygen or the specific role of silver in empirical formulas, leaving these points open for further exploration.

chomool
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Homework Statement


0.2243 g of compound C give 0.3771 g of carbon dioxide, 0.0643 g of water and 0.2685 g of silver bromide. Determine the empirical formula of the compound.

Homework Equations


Why the empirical formula only takes C,H and Br into consideration, but singles out Ag?
Ans: C6H5Br

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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It must be because they assume you know that silver nitrate is used to determine halogens. They also assume the you have no oxygen in the compound and that oxygen is used in excess as a reagent in the C and H determination.
 
chemisttree said:
It must be because they assume you know that silver nitrate is used to determine halogens. They also assume the you have no oxygen in the compound and that oxygen is used in excess as a reagent in the C and H determination.


I see your point, thanks chemisttree
Once more question,
Will Ag be included into empirical formula at times?

In other words,
is there any restrictions in composition elements of the empirical formula?

Thanks.
 
chomool said:
is there any restrictions in composition elements of the empirical formula?

Generally speaking - no.
 

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