Gas Stoichiometry: Find Molecular Formula of CHCl

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The discussion revolves around determining the molecular formula of a compound with the empirical formula CHCl, given its mass and conditions in a flask. The ideal gas law (PV=nRT) is identified as the relevant equation to find the number of moles (n) of the gas. Participants express confusion about how to use the calculated moles in conjunction with the mass to derive the molecular formula. Clarifications emphasize that moles and grams cannot be directly added, and the importance of understanding the relationship between moles and mass is highlighted. The conversation ultimately aims to guide the user toward calculating the molecular formula based on the provided data.
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Homework Statement


A compound has the empirical formula CHCl. A 256 mL flask, at 373 K and 750. torr, contains 0.800 g of the gaseous compound. Give the molecular formula.


Homework Equations


Only equation i know that relates to this is PV=nRT.


The Attempt at a Solution


I have absolutely no idea.
 
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That's the right equation. Plug in all the numbers you can into it, and see what happens.
 
All that will give me is "n." what good does that do?
 
n and 0.8 g - combine these two numbers.
 
how does that give me the molecular formula? I'm still lost...
 
The empirical formula is CHCl. Given that, what are the possible molecular formulas?
 
magma_saber said:
how does that give me the molecular formula? I'm still lost...

Check what it does give you. Very important property of substance.
 
Borek said:
n and 0.8 g - combine these two numbers.

By this do you mean add n and 0.8? If so then i get 0.808. now what?
 
No, I didn't told you have to add them. Look at the units - one is number of moles, second is grams. You can't add them just like that.

There is a very important property of each reagent that combines moles and grams, and is extensively used in all almost chemical calculations. Seems to me like you have calculated that 0.008 mole is 0.8 g. Can you calculate now mass of other number of moles of the same substance?
 
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