2. A compound with the following composition by mass: 24.0% C, 7.0% H, 38.0% F, and 31.0% P. what is the empirical formula

C₂H₇F₂P

Explanation:

Given parameters:

Composition by mass:

C = 24%

H = 7%

F = 38%

P = 31%

Unknown:

Empirical formula of compound;

Solution:

The empirical formula is the simplest formula of a compound. To solve for this, follow the process below;

C H F P

% composition

by mass 24 7 38 31

Molar mass 12 1 19 31

Number of

moles 24/12 7/1 38/19 31/31

2 7 2 1

Dividing

by the

smallest 2/1 7/1 2/1 1/1

2 7 2 1

Empirical formula C₂H₇F₂P