How do we calculate the empirical formula from percentage composition?

Chemistry

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empirical formula, stoichiometry

How do we calculate the empirical formula from percentage composition?

If a compound has 40% carbon, 6.7% hydrogen, and 53.3% oxygen, how do we find its formula?

Curious Corner

Sep 01, 2025

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Curious Corner

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Step 1: Assume 100 g → masses = percentages. Step 2: Convert to moles: C=40/12≈3.33C = 40/12 ≈ 3.33, H=6.7/1≈6.7H = 6.7/1 ≈ 6.7, O=53.3/16≈3.33O = 53.3/16 ≈ 3.33. Step 3: Divide by the smallest: C:1C:1, H:2H:2, O:1O:1. Empirical formula = CH₂O.