Question

which of these molecular formulas is a carbohydrate?
c₁₄h₂₈o₂
c₉h₁₃no₃
c₆h₁₂
c₃h₇no₂s
c₄h₈o₄

Explanation:

Carbohydrates have a general formula of $C_x(H_2O)_y$, meaning they typically have carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in a ratio where hydrogen is approximately twice the amount of oxygen. Analyzing each formula:

• $C_{14}H_{28}O_2$ has H - O ratio not typical of carbohydrates.
• $C_9H_{13}NO_3$ contains nitrogen, not typical of simple carbohydrates.
• $C_6H_{12}$ has no oxygen, not a carbohydrate.
• $C_3H_7NO_2S$ contains nitrogen and sulfur, not a carbohydrate.
• $C_4H_8O_4$ follows the general $C_x(H_2O)_y$ pattern ($x = 4$, $y = 4$).

Answer:

$C_4H_8O_4$