A compound contains 40.0% carbon, 6.7% hydrogen and 53.3% oxygen. If the molar mass of the compound is 180, Find the molecular formula [H = 1, C = 12, O = 16)

A. CH2O
B. C3H6O3
C. C6H12O6
D. C6H12O3

Correct Answer:

Option C – C6H12O6

Explanation

C = 40%, 40/12 = 3.33
H = 6.7%, 6.7/1 = 6.7
O = 53.3%, 53.3/16 = 3.33

C = 3.33/3.33 = 1
H = 6.7/3.33 = 2
O = 3.33/3.33 = 1

(CH2O)n = 180
(12 + 2 + 16)n = 180
30n = 180
n = 6

= C6H12O6