The discussion revolves around calculating the number of moles and mass of a sample of copper sulfate pentahydrate (CuSO4•5H2O) based on a given number of formula units. The scope includes homework-related calculations and the application of relevant equations.
Participants generally agree on the correctness of the calculations presented, but there is disagreement regarding the terminology used and its necessity. The question about the moles in relation to another part of the question remains unresolved.
There is a lack of clarity regarding the implications of using "formula units" versus "molecules," and the discussion does not resolve whether the moles calculated are indeed the same for the other part of the question.
There was another part to this question and it asked how many moles of this substance are in this sample? Would that not just be the same as the answer to a)?epenguin said:Yes but that looks correct. I have got through a lifetime without ever hearing the term 'formula units'. Unnecessary IMO and I expect you will forget it, like those formulae you used. All it means is 'number of molecules' right? Which would see you through. I expect this pedantry is because CuSO4.5H2O isn't strictly a molecule but, oof, it's just like one for this purpose.