Question

which compounds have the empirical formula ch₂o?
□ c₂h₄o₂
□ c₃h₆o₃
□ ch₂o₂
□ c₅h₁₀o₅
□ c₆h₁₂o₆

Explanation:

Step1: Recall empirical - formula concept

The empirical formula represents the simplest whole - number ratio of atoms in a compound.

Step2: Analyze $C_2H_4O_2$

Divide subscripts by 2: $\frac{2}{2}:\frac{4}{2}:\frac{2}{2}=1:2:1$, empirical formula is $CH_2O$.

Step3: Analyze $C_3H_6O_3$

Divide subscripts by 3: $\frac{3}{3}:\frac{6}{3}:\frac{3}{3}=1:2:1$, empirical formula is $CH_2O$.

Step4: Analyze $CH_2O_2$

The ratio of $C:H:O = 1:2:2$, empirical formula is $CH_2O_2$ (not $CH_2O$).

Step5: Analyze $C_5H_{10}O_5$

Divide subscripts by 5: $\frac{5}{5}:\frac{10}{5}:\frac{5}{5}=1:2:1$, empirical formula is $CH_2O$.

Step6: Analyze $C_6H_{12}O_6$

Divide subscripts by 6: $\frac{6}{6}:\frac{12}{6}:\frac{6}{6}=1:2:1$, empirical formula is $CH_2O$.

Answer:

A. $C_2H_4O_2$, B. $C_3H_6O_3$, D. $C_5H_{10}O_5$, E. $C_6H_{12}O_6$