Question

An organic compound containing $C,H$ and $N$ gave the following analysis $C=40$%, $H=13.33$%, $N=46.67$%. Its empirical formula would be:

• A. $C{H}_{4}N$
• B. $C{H}_{5}N$
• C. $C_2{H}_7{N}_2$
• D. $C_2{H}_{7}N$

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

$C{H}_{4}N$

In order to determine the empirical formula of the compound, the ratio of the number of moles of Carbon, Hydrogen, and Oxygen has to be determined. Therefore,

$C:H:N=\frac{40}{12}:\frac{13.33}{1}:\frac{46.67}{14}=1:4:1$

Hence, the empirical formula of the compound is $C{H}_{4}N$

Option A is correct.