Questions: Which of the following is the empirical formula for hexane, C6H14?
Select one:
A. C0.43H
B. C6H14
C. C12H28
D. CH2,3
E. C3H7
Transcript text: Which of the following is the empirical formula for hexane, $\mathrm{C}_{6} \mathrm{H}_{14}$ ?
Select one:
A. $\mathrm{C}_{0.43} \mathrm{H}$
B. $\mathrm{C}_{6} \mathrm{H}_{14}$
C. $\mathrm{C}_{12} \mathrm{H}_{28}$
D. $\mathrm{CH}_{2,3}$
E. $\mathrm{C}_{3} \mathrm{H}_{7}$
Solution
Solution Steps
Step 1: Understand the Empirical Formula
The empirical formula represents the simplest whole-number ratio of atoms in a compound. For hexane, \(\mathrm{C}_{6} \mathrm{H}_{14}\), we need to find the simplest ratio of carbon to hydrogen.
Step 2: Determine the Ratio
The molecular formula of hexane is \(\mathrm{C}_{6} \mathrm{H}_{14}\). To find the empirical formula, divide the subscripts by their greatest common divisor. In this case, the greatest common divisor of 6 and 14 is 2.
Step 3: Simplify the Formula
Divide each subscript in \(\mathrm{C}_{6} \mathrm{H}_{14}\) by 2:
Carbon: \( \frac{6}{2} = 3 \)
Hydrogen: \( \frac{14}{2} = 7 \)
The empirical formula is \(\mathrm{C}_{3} \mathrm{H}_{7}\).
Step 4: Select the Correct Option
Compare the simplified empirical formula \(\mathrm{C}_{3} \mathrm{H}_{7}\) with the given options. The correct choice is option E: \(\mathrm{C}_{3} \mathrm{H}_{7}\).
Final Answer
The correct answer is E. \(\boxed{\mathrm{C}_{3} \mathrm{H}_{7}}\)