MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #211

A compound contains 10.5 grams of phenol and 15 grams of water. What is the empirical formula of the compound?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #211

  1. Question 1

    Q1. A compound contains 10.5 grams of phenol and 15 grams of water. What is the empirical formula of the compound?

    • A) C6H5OH·H2O
    • B) C6H5OH·2H2O
    • C) C6H5OH·3H2O
    • D) C6H5OH·4H2O

    Answer: C6H5OH·2H2O

    Explanation: The molar mass of phenol is 94 g/mol. The molar mass of water is 18 g/mol. The ratio of phenol to water is 10.5/18 : 15/18, which simplifies to 1:1.4, or approximately 1:2, leading to an empirical formula of C6H5OH·2H2O.