Question

What is the empirical formula of glucose, whose molecular formula is $ \text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6 $?

• A. \( \text{CH}_2\text{O} \)
• B. \( \text{C}_2\text{H}_4\text{O}_2 \)
• C. \( \text{C}_3\text{H}_6\text{O}_3 \)
• D. \( \text{C}_6\text{H}_6\text{O}_3 \)

Hint:

Remember: The empirical formula is the simplest whole-number ratio of atoms in a compound. To find it, divide the subscripts in the molecular formula by their GCD.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Define the empirical formula
The empirical formula shows the simplest whole-number ratio of elements in a compound. For example, the molecular formula of glucose is \( \text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6 \).
Step 2: Simplify the ratio of the elements
The elemental ratio in glucose is: - Carbon (C): 6 atoms - Hydrogen (H): 12 atoms - Oxygen (O): 6 atoms To simplify this ratio, divide each atom count by their greatest common divisor (GCD), which is 6.\[\frac{6}{6} : \frac{12}{6} : \frac{6}{6} = 1 : 2 : 1\]The resulting empirical formula is \( \text{CH}_2\text{O} \).
Answer:
The empirical formula for glucose is \( \text{CH}_2\text{O} \). The correct option is (1).