Phosphorus pentoxide is a common drying agent of organic molecules. Mass analysis reveals that it has the empirical formula P₂O₅. If the molar mass is 283.89 g/mol, which molecular formula is correct? A)P₂O₅ B)P₃O₄ C)P₄O₁₀ D)P₅O₆ E)P₆H₁₅

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The empirical formula P₂O₅ has a molar mass of approximately 141.94 g/mol. The molecular formula is a multiple of the empirical formula. Since 283.89 g/mol is roughly twice 141.94 g/mol, the molecular formula is P₄O₁₀.

Phosphorus Pentoxide Is a Common Drying Agent of Organic Molecules