Which of the following could be an empirical formula?

Rationale

CH is an empirical formula.

An empirical formula represents the simplest whole-number ratio of elements in a compound. In the case of CH, it indicates a 1:1 ratio of carbon to hydrogen, which is the simplest form compared to the other options that represent molecular formulas with larger ratios.

A (C4H8) YOUR ANSWER

C4H8 can be simplified to C1H2, indicating that it is not in its simplest form. An empirical formula must have the lowest whole-number ratio, and since C4H8 simplifies further, it does not qualify as an empirical formula.

B (C2H6) YOUR ANSWER

C2H6 simplifies to CH3, meaning it also can be expressed in a simpler form. This shows that C2H6 is a molecular formula rather than an empirical one, as it does not represent the simplest whole-number ratio of carbon to hydrogen.

C (CH) CORRECT

CH is already in its simplest whole-number ratio of 1:1 for carbon to hydrogen, making it an empirical formula. It accurately represents the lowest ratio of elements without further simplification.

D (C3H6) YOUR ANSWER

C3H6 can be simplified to C1H2, which shows that like the previous choices, it does not represent the simplest form. Thus, C3H6 is also classified as a molecular formula rather than an empirical one.

Conclusion

Empirical formulas are defined by their representation of the simplest ratio of elements in a compound. Among the options given, only CH maintains this simplicity, whereas the other choices can be simplified further, categorizing them as molecular formulas. Understanding the distinction between empirical and molecular formulas is crucial in chemistry for accurately describing compounds and their compositions.

Which of the following could be an empirical formula?

CH is an empirical formula.

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