Question

An organic compound on analysis gave $C=54.2$, $H=$$9.2$ by mass. Its empirical formula is :

• A. $CH{O}_2$
• B. $C{H}_{2}O$
• C. $C_2{H}_{8}O$
• D. $C_2{H}_{4}O$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $C_2{H}_{4}O$

Element	mass%	Atomic mass(g)	$\frac{mass\%}{At.mass}$	Integral ratio
C	54.2	12	4.52	2
H	9.2	1	9.2	4
O	36.6	16	2.3	1

% Oxygen = 100 - ( 54.2 + 9.2)

= 36.6 %

The empirical formula is $C_2{H}_{4}O$.

Hence, option $D$ is correct.