Which formula is both a molecular and an empirical formula?
(1) C6H12O6 (3) C3H8O
(2) C2H4O2 (4) C4H8
3 C3H8O
because you cannot divide the subscripts anymore. The molecular formula is in it's simplest form. And C3H8O is a molecule as well.
Answer : The correct option is, (3) \(C_3H_8O\)
Explanation :
Empirical formula : It is defined as the simplest or most reduced ratio of atoms in a compound.
Molecular formula : It is defined as the how many atoms of each element present in a compound.
From the given options, the option (3) \(C_3H_8O\) formula represent both a molecular and an empirical formula.
From \(C_3H_8O\) formula, we can determine the molecular formula by multiplying the whole numbers (1, 2, 3, 4 ....etc.)
While the other options, (1), (2) and (4) do not represent both a molecular and an empirical formula. Only represent the molecular formula.
The molecular formula of Glucose is, \(C_6H_{12}O_6\) and the empirical formula will be, \(C_1H_2O_1\)
The molecular formula of Ethanoic acid is, \(C_2H_4O_2\) and the empirical formula will be, \(C_1H_2O_1\)
The molecular formula of Butene is, \(C_4H_8\) and the empirical formula will be, \(C_1H_2\)
Hence, the formula represent both a molecular and an empirical formula is, \(C_3H_8O\)