Questions: A compound contains 32.1 g S and 32 g O . Determine the compound's empirical formula.

Solution Steps

• Sulfur (S):

  • Given mass = 32.1 g
  • Molar mass of S = 32.07 g/mol
  • Moles of S = 32.1 g / 32.07 g/mol ≈ 1.00 mol

• Oxygen (O):

  • Given mass = 32 g
  • Molar mass of O = 16.00 g/mol
  • Moles of O = 32 g / 16.00 g/mol = 2.00 mol

• Ratio of S to O:
  • Moles of S = 1.00 mol
  • Moles of O = 2.00 mol
  • Ratio = 1.00 : 2.00

• The simplest whole number ratio of S to O is 1:2.
• Therefore, the empirical formula is SO₂.

Final Answer