How can I find the molecular formula in this problem?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the molecular formula of an organic compound "A" composed of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O) based on combustion data. Participants explore the calculations involved in deriving the empirical formula and the subsequent molecular formula, addressing potential errors in the initial approach.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a calculation of the masses of C, H, and O produced from the combustion of compound A, attempting to derive the empirical formula.
  • Another participant questions the molar ratios calculated, indicating that the total mass of the elements exceeds the mass of the compound A, suggesting an error in the calculations.
  • Several participants emphasize the need for a stoichiometric equation to relate the unknowns in the reaction, indicating that three equations are necessary to solve for the three unknowns.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the correctness of the approach and seeks clarification on whether there are alternative methods to solve the problem.
  • Another participant points out that the relative molecular mass (RMM) of an organic compound containing only C, H, and O should not be odd, implying a potential error in the provided data.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the correctness of the initial calculations and the validity of the provided data. Multiple competing views on the approach to solving the problem are present, and the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the accuracy of the initial mass calculations and the implications of the odd RMM for an organic compound consisting solely of C, H, and O. These factors contribute to the uncertainty in the discussion.

nineteen
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Homework Statement



In an organic compound "A" only C,H and O is present. 1.22g of A is completely burned and it gives 0.84g of CO2 and 0.54g of H2O. If the relative molecular mass of "A" is 123. Find the molecular formula of A.
[/B]
I have showed my attempt at solving this problem, but I think it is wrong. Please help me out here. After what I have done last, there are only a few more steps to find the empirical formula and then the molecular formula itself, but I think what I have done is wrong. Please try and correct me, I'd appreciate it a lot.

2. Homework Equations

no. of moles = Mass/Molar mass
n of the molecular formula = Molar mass/ Formula mass of the empirical formula

(I guess that those are the only equations)​

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
Mass of C in CO2 produced: (12/44) x 0.84g = 0.22g
Mass of O in CO2 produced: (32/44) x 0.84g = 0.61g

Mass of H in H2O produced: (2/18) x 0.54g = 0.06g
Mass of O in H2O produced : (16/18) x 0.54g = 0.48g

Total masses;
C = 0.22g
O = 1.09g
H = 0.06g

Molar ratios of elements;

C ----> (0.22/12) = 0.01
H ----> (0.06/1) = 0.06
O ----> (1.09/16) = 0.06

Dividing all by the smallest value;

C ----> 0.01/0.01 = 1
H ----> 0.06/0.01 = 6
O ----> 0.06/0.01 = 6
 
Last edited:
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Hi 19,

nineteen said:
Molar ratios of elements
in what ? In A ?
 
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BvU said:
Hi 19,

in what ? In A ?

Yes, the elements C,H and O...
By all means, I don't know whether this approach to the solution is correct or not.
 
It is not. Your elements add up to 1.38 g. There is only 1.22 g of A
 
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BvU said:
It is not. Your elements add up to 1.38 g. There is only 1.22 g of A

Yeah that's what. Can you please help me find the solution to this?
 
Write the stoeciometric equation for the reaction ##C_xO_yH_z + ?? O_2 \rightarrow ?? CO_2 + ?? H_2O##
Three unknowns, so you need to find three equations.
 
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BvU said:
Write the stoeciometric equation for the reaction ##C_xO_yH_z + ?? O_2 \rightarrow ?? CO_2 + ?? H_2O##
Three unknowns, so you need to find three equations.

Isn't there any other method to solve this, except for the stoichiometry method?
 
You'll need it, I'm afraid. Express the ?? in terms of ##x, y ## and ##z##
 
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BvU said:
You'll need it, I'm afraid. Express the ?? in terms of ##x, y ## and ##z##
Thank you very much!
 
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  • #10
The numbers here make no sense. Apart from anything else, an organic compound containing only C, H and O cannot have an odd RMM. Check that you've copied all the numbers correctly; if you have, I suspect a mistake in the question.
 
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  • #11
mjc123 said:
The numbers here make no sense. Apart from anything else, an organic compound containing only C, H and O cannot have an odd RMM. Check that you've copied all the numbers correctly; if you have, I suspect a mistake in the question.

Ok friend, I'll look into it.
 

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