Simple Question probably making it harder than it is

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a stoichiometry problem involving the calculation of the number of atoms in a given mass of carbon dioxide (CO2). Participants explore how to convert grams of CO2 into moles and subsequently determine the number of atoms of carbon and oxygen present.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant initially poses a question about the number of atoms in 0.25 g of carbon derived from CO2, mistakenly suggesting 1 mol of carbon and 2 mol of oxygen.
  • Another participant suggests writing out the balanced equation to simplify the problem into a stoichiometry question.
  • A later reply clarifies the question to specify 0.25 g of CO2 and seeks to find the number of atoms of each element.
  • Participants discuss converting CO2 to moles as a necessary step in the calculation.
  • There is a mention of using Avogadro's number to facilitate the conversion from moles to atoms.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the approach of converting grams of CO2 to moles and then calculating the number of atoms, but there is no consensus on the initial interpretation of the question.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not fully resolve the calculations or assumptions regarding the conversion process and the interpretation of the initial question.

cheechnchong
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Ok i made this question up, buuuut...

Say you have 0.25 g Carbon and it's from the CO2. How much atoms are in C and O?

haha the way I've been writing it down is C = 1 mol and O = 2 mol
 
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Write out the balanced equation, then it turns into a simple stoich problem
 
Stevedye56 said:
Write out the balanced equation, then it turns into a simple stoich problem

hahah let me rephrase the question...it's 0.25 g CO2! how much atoms of each element? another oopsers
 
change CO2 to moles and then go from there.
 
Stevedye56 said:
change CO2 to moles and then go from there.

ok so go the avrogado route i see!

yeah makes sense too since writing down atoms from the CO2 is based off of 1 mol of the compound.
 
cheechnchong said:
ok so go the avrogado route i see!

yeah makes sense too since writing down atoms from the CO2 is based off of 1 mol of the compound.


Avagadro FTW!:biggrin:
 

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