An organic compound contains 69% carbon; 15.3% hydrogen and 30.7% oxygen. Calculate the the empirical formula [C=12, H = 1, O = 16]

A. C₄H₁₂O
B. C₃H₉O
C. C₄H₈O
D. C₃H₈O

Correct Answer:

Option D – C₃H₈O

Explanation

C = 69/12; H = 15.3/1; O = 30.7/16;
C = 5.75, H = 15.3, O = 1.92

C = 5.75/1.92; H = 15.3/1.92; O = 1.92/1.92
C₃H₈O