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Question

A compound contains 38.71% carbon, 9.68% hydrogen, and 51.61% oxygen by mass. What is its empirical formula? (Atomic masses: C = 12, H = 1, O = 16)

Options

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Explanation

For 100 g: C = 38.71 g, H = 9.68 g, O = 51.61 g. Moles: C ≈ 3.23, H ≈ 9.68, O ≈ 3.23. Ratio = 1 : 3 : 1; empirical formula = CH₃O.