Is This Carbon Monoxide Calculation Correct?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a calculation involving carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, specifically how much carbon monoxide is needed to produce 100 grams of carbon dioxide. The scope includes homework-related problem-solving and mathematical reasoning in chemistry.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a calculation method for determining the amount of carbon monoxide needed, based on a chemical reaction equation.
  • Another participant points out a mathematical error in the initial calculation, suggesting that the formula for carbon dioxide is incorrect.
  • A participant humorously questions the correct composition of carbon dioxide, implying confusion about the chemical formula.
  • Further calculations are presented by another participant, who attempts to clarify the atomic masses involved but expresses uncertainty about the formula used.
  • A participant reflects on the influence of a previous source that provided incorrect information, indicating a reliance on external validation for their understanding.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correctness of the initial calculation, with multiple competing views and ongoing confusion about the chemical formula and calculations involved.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved mathematical steps and assumptions regarding the chemical reaction and atomic masses. Participants express uncertainty about the formula and its components.

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Homework Statement



calculate the amount of carbon monoxide necessary to form 100 g of carbon dioxide.

The Attempt at a Solution



2CO + O2 -> 2CO2

Oxygen atom mass ≈ 16μ
Carbon atom mass ≈ 12μ

There are 2 carbom atoms and 1 oxygen atom

100/16+24 = 2.5

2.5(16+12) = 70g

Answer: You need 70g CO2 to form 100g carbon dioxide.

Is this right? I've done some research in Swedish on similar problems and pretty much copy pasted the method. If this is right could someone please write what formula this is?
 
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Chances are it would be right if not for the fact you messed up your math. CO2 is not an oxygen plus two carbon atoms.
 
Is it two oxygen + 1 carbon? :P
 
Yep. Take a look at the formula, or the name.
 
32 + 12 = 48

100/48 = 2.083
2.083(16+12?) = 58.324g

If this is correct why is it 16+12 in the "( )"? I do not yet understand this formula obviously. I know that 16+12 is the atom masses for oxygen and carbon together but why would this be in the formula?
 
Ye firstly I figured it was two oxygen + 1 carbon but another person who apparently "knew" chemistry at a website in swedish wrote it out like that so I figured he were more likely to be right than me. Apperently he was wrong.
 

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