Answer:
molecular formula of the compound is C₄H₈O₄
Explanation:
First the empirical formula of the compound is determined:
Divide the percentage masses by the molar mass of each element to determine the mole ratio;
Carbon, C: 40/12 = 3.33
Hydrogen, H: 6.6/1 = 6.6
Oxygen, O: 53.4 / 16 = 3.3
dividing through with the smallest ratio to obtain the simplest whole number mole ratios
C = 3.3/3.3 = 1
H = 6.6/3.3 = 2
O = 3.3/3.3 = 1
Therefore, the empirical formula is CHO
molecular formula/mass = n (empirical formula/mass)
120 g/mol = n( 12 + 1 * 2 + 16)
30n = 120
n = 4 therefore, the molecular formula = 4(CH₂O)
molecular formula of the compound is C₄H₈O₄
