Question

what is the correct molecular formula for the structure shown below?
c₁₀h₁₂o₂
c₁₁h₁₄o₂
c₁₁h₁₆o₂
c₁₂h₁₂o₂
c₁₀h₁₆o₂

Explanation:

Step1: Count carbon atoms

Count the carbon - containing atoms in the structure. There are 12 carbon atoms in the benzene - ring and the attached groups.

Step2: Count hydrogen atoms

Count the hydrogen atoms attached to the carbon atoms. There are 12 hydrogen atoms.

Step3: Count oxygen atoms

There are 2 oxygen atoms in the carbon - oxygen double - bond and the oxygen in the methoxy group.

Answer:

$C_{12}H_{12}O_{2}$