Which of the following is the relative molecular mass of a compound which has empirical formula CH\(_2\)O? (H = 1; C = 12; O = 16)
- 42
- 45
- 126
-
180
- 145
The correct answer is: D
Explanation
Empirical formula = CH\(_2\)O
= 12 + (2 x 1) + 16
= 30
Molecular formula = (CH\(_2\)O)\(_n\), where n is a whole number.
= 30n
\(\therefore\) From the options, only 180 is a multiple of 30. Hence, that is the only likely molecular mass with respect to CH\(_2\)O.