Question

1.05 - test review - counting atoms
how many total atoms are in one molecule of lactic acid?
hc₃h₅o₃

Explanation:

Step1: Identify each atom's count

For the formula \( \text{HC}_3\text{H}_5\text{O}_3 \), we count the number of each type of atom:

• Hydrogen (H): The first H is 1, and the \( \text{H}_5 \) is 5, so total H atoms: \( 1 + 5 = 6 \)
• Carbon (C): \( \text{C}_3 \) means 3 C atoms.
• Oxygen (O): \( \text{O}_3 \) means 3 O atoms.

Step2: Sum the atom counts

Now, sum the number of H, C, and O atoms: \( 6 + 3 + 3 \)
\( 6+3 = 9 \), then \( 9 + 3 = 12 \)

Answer:

12