Question

question 3.
ascorbic acid is a naturally occurring compound with antioxidant properties. it is represented by the chemical formula:
c₆h₈o₆
how many atoms of each element are present in the chemical formula for ascorbic acid?
a. 6 carbon, 6 hydrogen, 8 oxygen
b. 8 carbon, 6 hydrogen, 8 oxygen
c. 6 carbon, 8 hydrogen, 6 oxygen
d. 8 carbon, 8 hydrogen, 6 oxygen

Explanation:

To determine the number of atoms of each element in the chemical formula \( C_6H_8O_6 \), we analyze the subscripts:

• For carbon (C), the subscript is 6, so there are 6 carbon atoms.
• For hydrogen (H), the subscript is 8, so there are 8 hydrogen atoms.
• For oxygen (O), the subscript is 6, so there are 6 oxygen atoms.

Answer:

C. 6 carbon, 8 hydrogen, 6 oxygen