Question

the empirical formula of hydroquinone is shown below. the molar mass of the molecule is 110.108 g/mol. what is the molecular formula for hydroquinone?
empirical formula
c₃h₃o
enter the answer choice number.

1. c₃h₃o
2. c₆h₆o₂
3. c₉h₉o₃
4. c₁₂h₁₂o₄

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate molar mass of empirical formula

Molar mass of \( C_3H_3O \): \( (3\times12.01) + (3\times1.008) + 16.00 = 36.03 + 3.024 + 16.00 = 55.054 \, \text{g/mol} \)

Step2: Find ratio \( n \)

\( n=\frac{\text{Molar mass of molecular formula}}{\text{Molar mass of empirical formula}}=\frac{110.108}{55.054}=2 \)

Step3: Multiply empirical formula by \( n \)

Multiply \( C_3H_3O \) by 2: \( C_{3\times2}H_{3\times2}O_{1\times2}=C_6H_6O_2 \) (matches option 2)

Answer:

1. \( C_6H_6O_2 \)