What is the empirical formula of a compound that is 64.8% C, 13.6% H, and 21.6% O by mass? A) C₅HO₂ B) C₄HO₁ C) C₈H₂₀O₂ D) C₅H₁₄O₁ E) C₄H₁₀O₁

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To find the empirical formula, convert the percentages to moles: C: 64.8 g / 12.01 g/mol = 5.4 mol, H: 13.6 g / 1.008 g/mol = 13.5 mol, O: 21.6 g / 16.00 g/mol = 1.35 mol. Divide by the smallest number of moles (1.35) to get the ratio: C: 4, H: 10, O: 1. Thus, the empirical formula is C₄H₁₀O.

What Is the Empirical Formula of a Compound That Is