Multiple Choice
If magnesium and nitrogen react to form a neutral compound, what is the molecular formula of the product?
80
views
3. Chemical Reactions
Molecular Formula
Multiple Choice
The diagram shows the molecular structure of propane. What is the chemical formula for propane?
A
C4H10
B
C3H8
C
C2H6
D
CH4
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the number of carbon atoms in the propane molecule. The prefix 'prop-' indicates that there are 3 carbon atoms.
Determine the number of hydrogen atoms in the molecule. For alkanes (saturated hydrocarbons), the general formula is \(C_nH_{2n+2}\), where \(n\) is the number of carbon atoms.
Apply the formula for alkanes to propane: with \(n=3\), calculate the number of hydrogen atoms as \$2(3) + 2$.
Write the chemical formula by combining the number of carbon and hydrogen atoms: \(C_3H_8\).
Compare the options given and select the formula that matches \(C_3H_8\), which is the correct chemical formula for propane.
Related Videos
Related Practice
