How many oxygen atoms are in a molecule made up of only C and O that contains two carbon atoms and has a molecular mass of 88?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The molecular mass of carbon (C) is approximately 12, so two carbon atoms contribute 24 to the molecular mass. To reach a total molecular mass of 88, the oxygen atoms must account for 64 units of mass. Since the atomic mass of oxygen (O) is approximately 16, four oxygen atoms (4 x 16 = 64) are needed to make up the difference, resulting in a molecule with two carbon atoms and four oxygen atoms.

How Many Oxygen Atoms Are in a Molecule Made Up