Chapter 12

Reacting masses
12.1 The mole, Avogadro constant and molar mass
12.2 Percentage by mass of an element in a compound
12.3 Chemical formulae of compounds
12.4 Empirical formulae and molecular formulae derived
from experimental data
12.5 Reacting masses from chemical equations

Learning goal
After studying this chapter, you should be able to:

12.1
• perform calculations related to moles, Avogadro constant and molar masses

12.2
• calculate the percentage by mass of an element in a compound using appropriate information

12.3-12.4
• determine empirical formulae and molecular formulae from compositions by mass and molar
masses

12.5
• understand and use the quantitative information provided by a balanced chemical equation

• calculate masses of reactants and products in a reaction from the relevant equation and state the
interrelationship between them

• perform calculations related to moles and reacting masses

• solve problems involving limiting reactants

Chapter 12 Reacting masses

Nitroglycerin (C3H5N3O9) is a powerful explosive. It is used for mining, construction and military. It
decomposes to generate a large amount of gases and heat. The equation of the chemical reaction is:

4C3H5N3O9(,) 6N2(g) + 12CO2(g) + 10H2O(g) + O2(g)

For controlling the effect of explosion, the right amount of gases and heat should be released.
Therefore, scientists must determine the amount of nitroglycerin used in an explosive accurately.

Think about...
Nitroglycerin molecules are too tiny to be seen. How can we count their number in an explosive?
We can count the number of nitroglycerin molecules by weighing.
What is the quantitative relationship between the reactant (nitroglycerin) and products (nitrogen,
carbon dioxide, water vapour and oxygen) in the above chemical reaction?
The reactant and any of the products in the above reaction are related by a ratio, as given by the stoichiometric coefficients in the chemical
equation.
After studying this chapter, you should be able to answer the above questions.

nitroglycerin 硝化甘油 explosive 炸藥

military 軍事
 12 Reacting masses

12.1 The mole, Avogadro constant and

PowerPoint molar mass
Mole and Avogadro constant
Learning tip
In daily life, some special units are used to describe the quantity of items.
1 ream of paper
refers to 500 For example, socks are in pairs, eggs are often packed in dozens, papers
identical sheets of are packed in reams. See Figure 12.1.
paper.

Note 1
The word ‘mole’ is derived from the
Latin word meaning a collection or
pile.

Note 2
Remind students that the
abbreviation of mole is mol (NOT Figure 12.1 Socks are in pairs, eggs are often packed in dozens, and papers are often
m); that of gram is g (NOT gm). packed in reams.

Note 3
Unlike socks, eggs and papers, particles (i.e. atoms, ions or molecules)
Determination of L using different
methods leads to values which are are too small to be seen. It is very difficult to count particles one by one.
very close to each other. The most
recent value proposed is 6.022 141
Chemists use a special unit called mole (abbreviation: mol), to describe N1,
23 –1
79 × 10 mol . By approximation, the quantity of particles in a substance. N2
23 –1
we take L = 6.02 × 10 mol .
CE2007(II)14

Learning tip Chemists have chosen the number of atoms in exactly 12.0 g of
A pure substance has a carbon-12 as the reference unit for the mole. The number of atoms in
23
formula. The simplest unit exactly 12.0 g of carbon-12 is 6.02 × 10 . This number is called the N3
of a substance is its –1
formula unit. For example, Avogadro constant (symbol: L; unit: mol ). Hence, we can also say
23
that, one mole of any substance contains 6.02 × 10 formula units
Formula
Substance
unit (Figure 12.2).
Water H2O

Copper Cu

Carbon C
Sodium
NaCl
chloride

1 mole of 1 mole of copper 1 mole of 1 mole of sodium chloride

23
water contains metal contains carbon contains contains 6.02 × 10 NaCl
Figure 12.2 One mole of 23 23 23
6.02 × 10 6.02 × 10 Cu 6.02 × 10 C formula units (or contains
each of the four substances. +
23
H2O molecules atoms atoms 1 mole of Na ions and 1
They all contain 6.02 × 10 –
mole of Cl ions)
formula units.

ream 令 (紙張計算單位)
Avogadro constant 亞佛加德羅常數
formula unit 式單位
mole 摩爾
3 12
 III Metals

E
XTRA
Historical note Chemists define mole in the following way:
S

Avogadro constant
The Avogadro constant
Key point
is named after the Italian One mole is the amount of a substance that contains the same
scientist Amedeo
Avogadro. He
number of formula units as the number of atoms in exactly 12.0 g of N4

suggested that the carbon-12. Note 4

volume of a gas is Tell students that the term ‘formula unit’ is preferred to ‘particle’ as the former
related to the number of is related to the formula of a species.
its molecules present.
Class practice 12.1 CE1999(II)2
0.2 pt
1. A gas jar contains 0.5 mole of oxygen molecules.
(a) Calculate the number of oxygen molecules in the gas jar.
(b) Hence, calculate the number of oxygen atoms in the gas jar.
24
2. Given that a beaker contains 1.204 × 10 sodium atoms. How many moles
of sodium atoms are there in the beaker?
Amedeo Avogadro A12.1
23 23
(1776–1856) 1. (a) Number of oxygen molecules = 0.5 × 6.02 × 10 = 3.01 × 10
(b) As there are two oxygen atoms in each oxygen molecule, number of oxygen atoms
23 23
= 3.01 × 10 × 2 = 6.02 × 10 24
1.204 × 10
2. Number of moles of sodium atoms = 23 mol = 2 mol
6.02 × 10
Mole and molar mass
* Book 1, Section 8.5, p.17 One mole of a substance has a mass equal to its *formula mass
expressed in gram unit. The mass of one mole of a substance is called its
–1
Note 5 molar mass. The unit of molar mass is gram per mol (g mol ). N5
Remind students again that
formula mass has no unit,
while molar mass has the unit
–1
of g mol .
Substances consisting of atoms
In Figure 12.2, one mole of carbon and one mole of copper both contain
23
6.02 × 10 atoms. However, one mole of carbon weighs 12.0 g while one
mole of copper weighs 63.5 g. The relative atomic masses of carbon and
copper are 12.0 and 63.5 respectively. Thus, the molar masses of carbon
–1 –1
Note 6
and copper are 12.0 g mol and 63.5 g mol respectively.
Tell students NOT to use ‘•’ as
the multiplication sign ‘×’. Thus,
it is 1.0 × 2, NOT 1.0 • 2. Substances consisting of molecules CE2008(II)46

Think about One mole of water weighs 18.0 g. The relative molecular mass of water
–1
Why does one mole = 1.0 × 2 + 16.0 = 18.0. Thus, the molar mass of water is 18.0 g mol . N6
of Cl2 correspond
to a mass of 71.0 g?
Substances consisting of ions
Think about
Relative molecular mass of One mole of sodium chloride weighs 58.5 g. The formula mass of sodium
chlorine is 35.5 × 2 = 71.0
Hence, mass of one mole of chloride = 23.0 + 35.5 = 58.5. Thus, the molar mass of sodium chloride is
chlorine is 71.0 g. –1
58.5 g mol .

12 4 formula mass 式量
molar mass 摩爾質量
relative atomic mass 相對原子質量
relative molecular mass 相對分子質量
 12 Reacting masses

Key point
The mass of one mole of a substance is called its molar mass. (Unit of
–1
molar mass: g mol )

Class practice 12.2

A12.2
1. (a) Molar mass of Ag = 107.9 g mol
–1 1. What is the molar mass of each of the following substances?
(b) Molar mass of F2 (a) Silver (b) Fluorine (c) Ammonia
–1 –1
= 19.0 × 2 g mol = 38.0 g mol
(d) Ethanol (C2H5OH) (e) Iron(III) sulphate
(c) Molar mass of NH3
–1
= (14.0 + 1.0 × 3) g mol = 17.0 g mol
–1
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, N = 14.0, O = 16.0, F = 19.0,
(d) Molar mass of C2H5OH
–1 S = 32.1, Fe = 55.8, Ag = 107.9)
= (12.0 × 2 + 1.0 × 6 + 16.0) g mol
= 46.0 g mol
–1
2. What is the mass of each of the following substances?
(e) Molar mass of Fe2(SO4)3
–1 (a) 1 mole of sodium sulphate
= 55.8 × 2 + 3 × (32.1 + 16.0 × 4) g mol
= 399.9 g mol
–1
(b) 0.5 mole of tetrachloromethane (CCl4)
2. (a) Mass of 1 mole of Na2SO4
(Relative atomic masses: C = 12.0, O = 16.0, Na = 23.0, S = 32.1,
= (23.0 × 2 + 32.1 + 16.0 × 4) g = 142.1 g
(b) Mass of 0.5 mol of CCl4 Cl = 35.5)
= 0.5 × (12.0 + 35.5 × 4) g = 77.0 g

Relationship between number of formula units,

number of moles and mass
The diagram below summarizes the relationship between ‘number of
formula units’, ‘number of moles’ and ‘mass’ in a substance.

÷ Avogadro constant × molar mass

number of number of
CE2005(II)23 mass
CE2010(II)4 formula units moles

× Avogadro constant ÷ molar mass

We can calculate one item from another by using the following

equations:

Key point
mass (g)
Number of moles (mol) = –1
molar mass (g mol )
number of formula units
Number of moles (mol) = –1
Avogadro constant (mol )

ethanol 乙醇
tetrachloromethane 四氯甲烷
5 12
 III Metals

H20 Example 12.1 CE2004(II)3 CE2008(II)10

CE2006(II)18
Calculating the mass and number of molecules in a substance using the number of moles
A gas jar contains 1.85 moles of methane (CH4). Note 7
(a) Remind students to write the ‘subject’
(a) Calculate the mass of methane in the gas jar. of an expression clearly. Thus, it is
(b) Hence, calculate the number of methane molecules in the gas jar. ‘Molar mass of methane = (12.0 + 1.0
–1 –1
× 4) g mol = 16.0 g mol ’, NOT
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0) –1
‘Methane = (12.0 + 1.0 × 4) g mol =
–1
16.0 g mol ’.
Solution
(b) Do not write ‘gm’ for ‘g’; ‘m’ or ‘M’ for
–1 –1
(a) Molar mass of methane = (12.0 + 1.0 × 4) g mol = 16.0 g mol N7 ‘mol’.
(c) It is a good practice to write a unit for
Mass of methane (g) each separate line (if applicable).
–1
= number of moles of methane (mol) × molar mass of methane (g mol )
–1
= 1.85 mol × 16.0 g mol
= 29.6 g
(b) Number of methane molecules
–1
= number of moles of methane (mol) × Avogadro constant (mol )
23 –1
= 1.85 mol × 6.02 × 10 mol
24
= 1.11 × 10 Self-test 12.1
(a) Molar mass of magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2)
Self-test 12.1 –1
= (24.3 + 16.0 × 2 + 1.0 × 2) g mol = 58.3 g mol
–1

Number of moles of Mg(OH)2

10.21 g
A beaker contains 10.21 g of magnesium hydroxide. = –1 = 0.175 mol
58.3 g mol
(a) Calculate the number of moles of magnesium hydroxide in the beaker.
(b) Hence, calculate the number of hydroxide ions in the beaker.
–
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, O = 16.0, Mg = 24.3) (b) Since 1 formula unit of Mg(OH)2 contains 2OH ions,
–
number of moles of OH ions = 0.175 × 2 mol = 0.350 mol
– 23 –1 23
Try Chapter Exercise Q9 Number of OH ions = 0.350 mol × 6.02 × 10 mol = 2.11 × 10

H20 Example 12.2

Calculating the mass of a particle of a substance
Calculate the mass of
(a) 1 Na atom (b) 1 H2O molecule (c) 1 formula unit of NaCl
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, O = 16.0, Na = 23.0, Cl = 35.5)
Solution
One mole of a substance corresponds to its molar mass and contains the Avogadro constant of
formula units. –1
molar mass (g mol )
 mass of 1 formula unit = –1
Avogadro constant (mol )
–1
23.0 g mol
(a) Mass of 1 Na atom = 23 –1
6.02 × 10 mol
–23
= 3.82 × 10 g
–1
(1.0 × 2 + 16.0) g mol
(b) Mass of 1 H2O molecule = 23 –1
6.02 × 10 mol
–23
= 2.99 × 10 g
cont’d
12 6
 12 Reacting masses

Self-test 12.2 –1
–1 24.3 g mol
(23.0 + 35.5) g mol (a) Mass of 1 Mg atom =
–23
= 4.04 × 10 g
(c) Mass of 1 formula unit of NaCl = 23 –1
23
6.02 × 10 mol
–1

6.02 × 10 mol 126.9 × 2 g mol

–1
–22
–23 (b) Mass of 1 I2 molecule = = 4.22 × 10 g
= 9.72 × 10 g
23 –1
6.02 × 10 mol
(c) Mass of 1 formula unit of CaCO3
–1
Self-test 12.2 (40.1 + 12.0 + 16.0 × 3) g mol
= 23 –1
6.02 × 10 mol
–22
= 1.66 × 10 g
Calculate the mass of
(a) 1 Mg atom (b) 1 I2 molecule (c) 1 formula unit of calcium carbonate
(Relative atomic masses: C = 12.0, O = 16.0, Mg = 24.3, Ca = 40.1, I = 126.9)

Class practice 12.3

A12.3
1. Calculate the mass of 1. (a) Mass of 0.200 mole of Cl atoms = 0.200 × 35.5 g = 7.1 g
(b) Mass of 0.200 mole of Cl2 molecules
(a) 0.200 mole of chlorine atoms. = 0.200 × (35.5 × 2) g = 14.2 g
(b) 0.200 mole of chlorine molecules. (c) Mass of Cl2 = 1.20 × (35.5 × 2) g = 85.2 g

(c) chlorine which contains the same number of molecules as there are in 1.20 mole of water.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, O = 16.0, Cl = 35.5)
2. Complete the following table.

Molar mass No. of moles No. of molecules/

Substance –1 Mass (g)
(g mol ) (mol) formula units
23
(a) Sodium hydroxide 40.0 10 0.250 1.51 × 10
22
(b) Helium 4.0 0.20 0.05 3.01 × 10
24
(c) Sulphur dioxide 64.1 320.5 5 3.01 × 10
23
(d) Compound X 46.0 23.0 0.5 3.01 × 10

(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, He = 4.0, O = 16.0, Na = 23.0, S = 32.1)

12.2 Percentage by mass of an element in

PowerPoint a compound
Calculating percentage by mass of an element in
the compound
From the formula of a compound, we can work out the percentage by
mass of each element in the compound.

Key point
Percentage by mass of element A in a compound
relative atomic mass of A × number of atoms of A in the formula
= × 100%
formula mass of the compound

percentage by mass 質量百分比

7 12
 III Metals

H20 Example 12.3 CE2001(II)26 CE2002(I)7(a)(v) CE2009(II)5

CE2002(I)1(c)(i) CE2007(I)5(e) DSE2012(IA)9
Calculate the percentage by mass of an element in a compound
Bauxite is the main ore of aluminium. It contains mainly aluminium oxide (Al2O3). Calculate the
percentage by mass of aluminium in aluminium oxide.
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Al = 27.0)
Solution
Formula mass of Al2O3
Al2 O3
= 27.0 × 2 + 16.0 × 3
= 102.0
Percentage by mass of Al in Al2O3
relative atomic mass of Al × number of atoms of Al in the formula
= × 100%
formula mass of Al2O3
27.0 × 2
= × 100%
102.0
= 52.9%

Self-test 12.3

Sodium hydroxide is the main ingredient of drain cleaner. Calculate the percentage by mass of sodium
Self-test 12.3
in sodium hydroxide. –1 –1
Formula mass of NaOH = (23.0 + 16.0 + 1.0) g mol = 40.0 g mol
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, O = 16.0, Na = 23.0) Percentage by mass of Na in NaOH
23.0
= × 100%
Try Chapter Exercise Q10 40.0
= 57.5%

Calculating the mass of an element in the

compound
The mass of an element in a compound can be calculated from the
formula of the compound and the percentage by mass of that element in
the compound.

H20 Example 12.4 CE2011(II)8

Calculate the mass of an element in a compound

Calculate the mass of copper in 15.0 g of copper(II) sulphate-5-water (CuSO4․5H2O).
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, O = 16.0, S = 32.1, Cu = 63.5)
Solution
Formula mass of CuSO4․5H2O
= 63.5 + 32.1 + 16.0 × 4 + 5 × (1.0 × 2 +16.0)
= 249.6
cont’d

12 8 bauxite 鋁土礦 drain cleaner 通渠劑

 12 Reacting masses

Percentage by mass of Cu in CuSO4․5H2O

relative atomic mass of Cu × number of atoms of Cu in the formula
= × 100%
formula mass of CuSO4․5H2O
63.5
= × 100%
249.6
= 25.4%
That means for every gram of CuSO4․5H2O, there is 25.4% (or 0.254 gram) of Cu in it.
 mass of Cu in 15.0 g of CuSO4․5H2O
Self-test 12.4
= 15.0 g × 25.4% Formula mass of K2Cr2O7
= 3.81 g
–1 –1
= (39.1 × 2 + 52.0 × 2 + 16.0 × 7) g mol = 294.2 g mol
Percentage by mass of K in K2Cr2O7
39.1 × 2
Self-test 12.4 =
294.2
× 100%
= 26.6%
Calculate the mass of potassium in 7.91 g of potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7).
Mass of K in 7.91 g of K2Cr2O7
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, K = 39.1, Cr = 52.0)
= 7.91 g × 26.6%
Try Chapter Exercise Q11 = 2.10 g

Calculating the relative atomic mass of an

element
The relative atomic mass of an element may be calculated from the
formula of the compound and percentage by mass of that element in the
compound.

H20 Example 12.5 CE1999(II)17

CE2002(II)3
Calculating the relative atomic mass of an element
The chloride of a metal M has the formula of MCl3 and contains 34.4% by mass of M. Calculate the
relative atomic mass of M.
(Relative atomic mass: Cl = 35.5)
Solution
Let the relative atomic mass of M be a.
Percentage by mass of M in MCl3
relative atomic mass of M × number of atoms of M in the formula
= × 100%
formula mass of MCl3
a Self-test 12.5
34.4% = × 100% Let the relative atomic mass of X be a.
a + 35.5 × 3 Percentage by mass of X in XBr2
a = 55.8 =
relative atomic mass of X × number of atoms of X in the formula
× 100%
formula mass of XBr2
 the relative atomic mass of M is 55.8. 25.6% =
a
× 100%
a + 79.9 × 2
100a
25.6 =
Self-test 12.5 a + 159.8
a = 55.0
The bromide of a metal X has the formula of XBr2 and contains 25.6% by mass of X. Calculate the
relative atomic mass of X.
(Relative atomic mass: Br = 79.9)
9 12
 III Metals A12.4
1. Let the relative atomic mass of M be a.
Percentage by mass of M in MO
Class practice 12.4 =
relative atomic mass of M × number of atoms of M in the formula
× 100%
formula mass of MO
1. A metal oxide MO contains 79.87% by mass of the metal M. Find the
2. Let the relative atomic mass of M be a. a
79.87% = × 100%
5.68
=
35.5 relative atomic mass of M. a + 16.0
26.88 a + 35.5 100a
a = 132.5
(Relative atomic mass: O = 16.0) 79.87 =
a + 16.0
 the relative atomic mass of M is 132.5. 2. 26.88 g of a metal chloride MCl contains 5.68 g of chlorine. Find the
100 a = 63.5
3. Number of moles of Na =
23.0
mol = 4.35 mol relative atomic mass of the metal M. the relative atomic mass of M is 63.5.
Since 1 formula unit of NaNO3 contains 1 Na, (Relative atomic mass: Cl = 35.5)
number of moles of NaNO3 = 4.35 mol
Mass of NaNO3 3. What is the mass of nitrogen present in the sample of sodium nitrate
= 4.35 × (23.0 + 14.0 + 16.0 × 3) g (NaNO3) which contains 100 g of sodium?
= 369.75 g
(Relative atomic masses: N = 14.0, O = 16.0, Na = 23.0)
Percentage by mass of N in NaNO3
=
14.0
× 100% = 16.5%
4. What is the mass of water of crystallization present in the sample of sodium
23.0 + 14.0 + 16.0 × 3
carbonate-10-water (Na2CO3․10H2O) which contains 4.6 g of sodium?
Mass of N in the NaNO3 sample
= 369.75 g × 16.5% = 61.0 g (Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, O = 16.0, Na = 23.0)

12.3 Chemical formulae of compounds

PowerPoint
Chemical formulae are part of the language of chemistry. In this section,
we are going to learn three types of chemical formulae.

DSE2013(IA)29 Empirical formula

A12.4 (Cont’d)
4. Number of moles of Na =
4.6
mol The empirical formula of a compound is the formula which shows the
23.0
= 0.2 mol
simplest whole number ratio of the atoms or ions present. It is
Since 1 formula unit of Na2CO3․10H2O
contains 2 Na, applicable to all compounds.
number of moles of Na2CO3․10H2O
0.2
= mol = 0.1 mol
2
Mass of Na2CO3․10H2O
Molecular formula
= 0.1 × [(23.0 × 2 + 12.0 + 16.0 × 3) +
10 × (1.0 × 2 + 16.0)] g The molecular formula of a substance shows the actual number of each
= 28.6 g
kind of atoms in one molecule of the substance. It is only applicable to
Percentage by mass of H2O in
Na2CO3․10H2O molecular compounds and elements consisting of molecules.
10 × (1.0 × 2 + 16.0)
= × 100%
[23.0 × 2 + 12.0 + 16.0 × 3 + 10 × (1.0 × 2 + 16.0)]
= 62.9%
Mass of H2O in the Na2CO3․10H2O
Structural formula
sample
= 28.6 g × 62.9% = 18.0 g The structural formula of a molecular substance is the formula which
shows how the constituent atoms are joined up in one molecule of the
substance.

The empirical, molecular and structural formulae of some substances

are given in Table 12.1.

12 10 empirical formula 實驗式

molecular formula 分子式
structural formula 結構式
water of crystallization 結晶水
 12 Reacting masses

Substance Empirical formula Molecular formula Structural formula

Nitrogen — N2 N≡N
Carbon dioxide CO2 CO2 O=C=O
H H
Ethene CH2 C2H4
H C C H

H H H
Propene CH2 C3H6 H C C C H
H
CE2010(II)13
H H
Ethanol C2H6O C2H6O H C C O H
H H

H H
Methoxymethane C2H6O C2H6O H C O C H
H H

Quartz SiO2 — —
Table 12.1 The different formulae of some substances.

We should note that:

• The empirical and molecular formulae of a compound may be the
same (e.g. carbon dioxide) or different (e.g. ethene). The molecular
formula is the empirical formula multiplied by some whole number
(1, 2, 3, etc.).
• Although different compounds may have the same empirical formula
and the same molecular formula (e.g. ethanol and methoxymethane),
they have different structural formulae.

H H
Class practice 12.5
H C C H
Complete the following table: A12.5
H H

Substance Empirical formula Molecular formula Structural formula

Oxygen / O2 O=O

Water H2O H2O H–O–H

Ethane CH3 C2H6

H H H H
But-1-ene CH2 C4H8 H C C C C H
H H

but-1-ene 丁-1-烯
ethane 乙烷
methoxymethane 甲氧基甲烷
propene 丙烯
11 12

ethene 乙烯
 III Metals

12.4 Empirical formulae and molecular

PowerPoint formulae derived from experimental
data
In Table 7.4 of Chapter 7, we learnt that copper may form copper(I) oxide
(Cu2O) or copper(II) oxide (CuO) with oxygen. In this section, we will
study how the empirical formula of an oxide of copper is determined.

Determination of empirical formulae

The empirical formula of a compound can be calculated from its
composition by mass i.e. the mass of each element present in a known
mass of the compound. The composition of a compound has to be
determined by experiment. Let us consider the following two examples.

Example 1: Determining the empirical formula of an oxide

of copper
To determine the empirical formula of an oxide of copper, we have to find
the ratio by mass of copper and oxygen in the compound.

Learning tip Pass town gas into a combustion tube. Then heat a known mass of
Hydrogen and carbon oxide of copper (black) in the combustion tube. The hydrogen and carbon
monoxide reduce the
monoxide in the town gas reduce the oxide to reddish brown copper. Then
oxide by removing
oxygen from it. find the mass of copper. A set-up for conducting the experiment is shown
in Figure 12.3.

SBA note
• At the beginning of
hole
the experiment, town oxide of copper
gas is passed into the
excess town gas
combustion tube. town gas
burns here
This is to expel the air supply
inside the tube.
• The hot copper
heat combustion tube
formed may react
with the oxygen in air
again. Therefore, it is
Figure 12.3 To determine the empirical formula of an oxide of copper by passing town gas
necessary to pass the
over the heated oxide.
town gas through the
combustion tube,
even after heating has
stopped.
Table 12.2 shows the specimen results of the experiment.

12 12 combustion tube 燃燒管

composition by mass 質量組成
reddish brown 紅棕色
specimen result 樣本結果
town gas 煤氣
 12 Reacting masses

Specimen results

Item Mass (g)

Combustion tube 18.100
Combustion tube + oxide of copper 18.701
Combustion tube + copper 18.579
Mass of copper in oxide 18.579 – 18.100 = 0.479
Table 12.2 The specimen
results of the experiment.
Mass of oxygen in oxide 18.701 – 18.579 = 0.122

From the experimental results, we can work out the empirical formula
of the oxide of copper as shown in ‘Problem-solving strategy 12.1’.

Problem-solving strategy 12.1 CE2006(II)37

Determining the empirical formula of a compound

The steps of how to determine the empirical formula of an oxide of copper are as follows:

Cu O
1 Write down the mass of
Mass (g) 0.479 0.122
each element

2 Write down the relative

atomic mass of each element
Relative atomic mass 63.5 16.0
(After some practice, you will
be able to skip this step.)

3 Calculate the number of Number of moles of atoms (mol)

0.479 0.122
moles of each type of atoms mass (g) = 0.00754 = 0.00763
(= –1
) 63.5 16.0
molar mass (g mol )

4 Calculate the simplest whole Simplest whole number mole ratio

number mole ratio of atoms of atoms
(divided by the smallest number of
0.00754 0.00763
moles) =1 = 1.01  1
0.00754 0.00754
(multiplied by the smallest possible
whole number to turn all the values
into whole number if necessary)

 the empirical formula of the oxide of copper is CuO.

Note:
Due to experimental error, the number(s) obtained for the simplest mole ratio may have a small difference
from a whole number. Hence, it is an acceptable practice to ‘round off’ the value(s) to the nearest whole
number(s). However, we must be very careful when doing so. For example, 1.01 can be rounded off to 1, but
1.2 is usually NOT rounded off to 1.

mole ratio 摩爾比 round off 四捨五入

13 12
 III Metals

crucible
magnesium
ribbon
Example 2: Determining the empirical formula of an oxide
pipe-clay
triangle of magnesium
Heat a known mass of magnesium strongly in a crucible (also of known
rocksil
mass) until it catches fire (Figure 12.4). Lift the crucible lid slightly from
heat very time to time. This lets in air to react with magnesium.
tripod strongly
From the experimental results, the empirical formula of the oxide of
Figure 12.4 To find the empirical magnesium can be worked out to be MgO. Try the experiment yourselves.
formula of an oxide of magnesium
by heating magnesium in air. Experiment 12.1 Experiment Workbook 1

Determining the empirical formula of an oxide of copper

In this experiment, you are going to determine the empirical formula of an
PowerPoint Experiment
Video oxide of copper.

Experiment 12.2 Experiment Workbook 1

Determining the empirical formula of an oxide of magnesium

PowerPoint Experiment
Video In this experiment, you are going to determine the empirical formula of an
oxide of magnesium.

The empirical formula of a compound can also be determined if the

percentage by mass of each element in the compound is known. See
Example 12.6.

H20 Example 12.6 CE2000(II)4 CE2005(I)8(a) CE2010(II)33 DSEPP2012(IB)5(a) DSE2013(IA)13

CE2004(II)12 CE2010(I)4(b) CE2011(II)38 DSE2012(IA)3
Determining the empirical formula of a compound from the percentage by mass
Compound Y was found to contain iron and oxygen only. Experiments showed that it contains 70%
iron and 30% oxygen by mass. Calculate the empirical formula of Y.
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Fe = 55.8)
Solution
Assume that there are 100 g of Y. Then there are 70 g of iron and 30 g of oxygen.

Fe O

Mass (g) 70 30

Relative atomic mass 55.8 16.0

Number of moles of atoms (mol)

mass (g) 70 30
= 1.25 = 1.88
(= –1 ) 55.8 16.0
molar mass (g mol )

cont’d
12 14
 12 Reacting masses

Fe O

Simplest whole number mole ratio of atoms 1.25

=1
1.88
= 1.5
(divided by the smallest number of moles) 1.25 1.25

(multiplied by the smallest possible whole

number (2 here) to turn all the values into 1×2=2 1.5 × 2 = 3
whole numbers)

 the empirical formula of Y is Fe2O3.

Try Chapter Exercise Q23

Class practice 12.6 (Answers on p.12-27.)

1. An experiment was performed to determine the empirical formula of an oxide of magnesium. The
experimental results are tabulated below.

Item Mass (g)

Crucible + lid 28.092

Crucible + lid + magnesium 28.698

Crucible + lid + oxide of magnesium 29.103

Determine the empirical formula of the oxide of magnesium using the above data.
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Mg = 24.3)
2. 1.200 g of a compound containing only carbon, hydrogen and oxygen gave 1.173 g of carbon dioxide and
0.240 g of water on complete combustion. Find the empirical formula of the compound.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, O = 16.0)
3. A compound has the empirical formula CxHy. On analysis, 1.000 g of the compound was found to
contain 0.857 g of carbon. Find the values of x and y.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0)
4. Compound X contains 26.95% sulphur, 13.44% oxygen and 59.61% chlorine by mass. Find the empirical
formula of X.
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, S = 32.1, Cl = 35.5)

CE2009(II)46 Determination of molecular formulae

Once the empirical formula and the relative molecular mass of a
compound are known, we can determine the molecular formula of the
compound. This is because molecular formula is a whole number
multiple of empirical formula.

complete combustion 完全燃燒

15 12
 III Metals

H20 Example 12.7

Determining molecular formula using empirical formula and relative molecular mass
A compound has an empirical formula CH2 and a relative molecular mass of 42.0. Determine its
molecular formula.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0)
Solution
Let the molecular formula of the compound be (CH2)n, where n is a whole number.
Relative molecular mass of (CH2)n = 42.0
n(12.0 + 1.0 × 2) = 42.0
n=3
 the molecular formula of the compound is (CH2)3, i.e. C3H6.

H20 Example 12.8 CE2003(I)3(b)(i) AS2010(II)4(a)

CE2008(II)31
Determining empirical formula and molecular formula using percentage by mass
Compound X was found to contain carbon and hydrogen only. Experiments showed that it contained
80% carbon and 20% hydrogen by mass. If its relative molecular mass is 30.0, calculate the empirical
formula and molecular formula of X.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0)
Solution
Assume that there are 100 g of X. Then there are 80 g of carbon and 20 g of hydrogen.

C H

Mass (g) 80 20

Relative atomic mass 12.0 1.0

Number of moles of atoms (mol)
mass (g) 80 20
= 6.67 = 20
(= –1 ) 12.0 1.0
molar mass (g mol )

Simplest whole number mole ratio of atoms 6.67

=1
20
=3
(divided by the smallest number of moles) 6.67 6.67

 the empirical formula of X is CH3.

Let the molecular formula of X be (CH3)n, where n is the whole number.
Relative molecular mass of (CH3)n = 30.0
n(12.0 + 1.0 × 3) = 30.0
15.0n = 30.0
n=2
 the molecular formula of X is C2H6.
Note: 2.99 can be rounded off to 3, but 2.8 is usually NOT rounded off to 3.
Try Chapter Exercise Q24
12 16
 12 Reacting masses

H20 Example 12.9 CE2007(I)12(a)(b)

DSE2013(IB)3(a)
Determining empirical formula and molecular formula using masses of combustion products
Compound Z containing only carbon, hydrogen and oxygen burnt completely in air to form carbon
dioxide and water as the only products. 2.43 g of Z gave 3.96 g of carbon dioxide and 1.35 g of water.
Determine the empirical formula of Z. If its relative molecular mass is 162.0, determine the
molecular formula of Z.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, O = 16.0)

Solution
Since all the C in CO2 and H in H2O came from Z,
12.0
mass of C in Z = 3.96 g × = 1.08 g;
12.0 + 16.0 × 2
1.0 × 2
mass of H in Z = 1.35 g × = 0.15 g
1.0 × 2 + 16.0
The rest of mass of Z must come from oxygen.
 mass of O in Z = (2.43 – 1.08 – 0.15) g = 1.20 g
Now go on to find the empirical formula of Z as follows:

C H O

Mass (g) 1.08 0.15 1.20

Relative atomic mass 12.0 1.0 16.0

Number of moles of atoms (mol)

mass (g) 1.08 0.15 1.20
= 0.090 = 0.15 = 0.075
(= –1 ) 12.0 1.0 16.0
molar mass (g mol )

Simplest whole number mole ratio of atoms 0.090

= 1.2
0.15
=2
0.075
=1
(divided by the smallest number of moles) 0.075 0.075 0.075

(multiplied by the smallest possible whole

number (5 here) to turn all values into 1.2 × 5 = 6 2 × 5 = 10 1×5=5
whole numbers)

 the empirical formula of Z is C6H10O5.

Let the molecular formula of Z be (C6H10O5)n, where n is the whole number.
Relative molecular mass of (C6H10O5)n = 162.0
n(12.0 × 6 + 1.0 × 10 + 16.0 × 5) = 162.0
162.0n = 162.0
n=1
 the molecular formula of Z is C6H10O5.

17 12
 III Metals

H20 Example 12.10 CE2003(II)11

DSE2014(IA)5
Determining the number of water of crystallization in a hydrated salt
5.60 g of hydrated copper(II) sulphate CuSO4․nH2O was heated in a crucible to drive off the water of
crystallization. The white residue was anhydrous copper(II) sulphate, which was found to have a mass
of 3.59 g.

hydrated copper(II) sulphate anhydrous copper(II) sulphate

(a) Deduce a reasonable value for n.

(b) Explain why the answer you gave in (a) differs a bit from the value actually calculated.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, O = 16.0, S = 32.1, Cu = 63.5)
Solution
(a) Mass of water of crystallization = (5.60 – 3.59) g
= 2.01 g

CuSO4 H2O

Mass (g) 3.59 2.01

Formula mass 159.6 18.0

Number of moles of formula units (mol)

mass (g) 3.59 2.01
= 0.0225 = 0.112
(= –1 ) 159.6 18.0
molar mass (g mol )

Simplest whole number mole ratio of formula units 0.0225

=1
0.112
= 4.98
(divided by the smallest number of moles) 0.0225 0.0225

Since n should be a whole number, a reasonable value of n would be 5.

(b) The experimental value of n (4.98) is lower than 5. This might be due to two reasons:
(1) Not all water of crystallization has been removed in the heating process.
(2) The anhydrous salt has absorbed some moisture from the atmosphere during weighing.
Try Chapter Exercise Q25

Experiment 12.3 Experiment Workbook 1

PowerPoint Experiment Determining the formula of hydrated copper(II) sulphate

Video In this experiment, you are going to determine the formula of hydrated
copper(II) sulphate.

12 18 anhydrous 無水的
hydrated salt 水合鹽
 12 Reacting masses

Class practice 12.7 (Answers on p.12-28.)

1. A compound containing only carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. 0.81 g of the compound gave 1.32 g of
carbon dioxide and 0.45 g of water on complete combustion. Find the empirical formula of the
compound. If the relative molecular mass of the compound is 320.0, find its molecular formula.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, O = 16.0)
2. A compound was found to contain 40.00% by mass of carbon, 6.67% by mass of hydrogen and 53.33%
by mass of oxygen. It has a relative molecular mass of 60.0. Calculate its molecular formula.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, O = 16.0)
3. Epsom salts are used as bath salts to relieve aches and pains. They are hydrated salts of magnesium sulphate
with formula MgSO4․nH2O.
Experiments were carried out to find the formula of the salt. It was found that it contained 51.22% by mass
of water of crystallization. Find the value of n.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, O = 16.0, Mg = 24.3, S = 32.1)

12.5 Reacting masses from chemical

PowerPoint equations

Chemical equations and reacting masses

In Chapter 11, we have learnt that a balanced equation provides us useful
information about the reaction it represents. Consider the equation
representing the reaction between magnesium and oxygen:

2Mg(s) + O2(g) 2MgO(s)

The equation tells us that,

2Mg(s) + O2(g) 2MgO(s)

2 formula units of
2 magnesium atoms 1 oxygen molecule
magnesium oxide

23 23 23
2 × 6.02 × 10 1 × 6.02 × 10 2 × 6.02 × 10 formula
magnesium atoms oxygen molecules units of magnesium oxide

Learning tip react to

2 moles of with 1 mole of oxygen form 2 moles of formula units
The molar masses of
Mg, O2 and MgO are magnesium atoms molecules of magnesium oxide
–1
24.3 g mol , (16.0 × 2 =
–1 –1 –1 –1
32.0) g mol , and (24.3 2 mol × 24.3 g mol 1 mol × 32.0 g mol 2 mol × 40.3 g mol
–1
+ 16.0 = 40.3) g mol = 48.6 g of = 32.0 g of oxygen = 80.6 g of formula units
respectively.
magnesium atoms molecules of magnesium oxide

Epsom salt 瀉鹽
19 12
 III Metals

Therefore, a balanced equation shows the quantitative relationship

Learning tip
of the reactant(s) and the product(s) in a reaction. The stoichiometric
The quantitative study
of reactants and coefficients in the equation indicate the relative number of moles (i.e.
products in a reaction mole ratio) of reactants and products involved in the reaction. Besides, the
is called stoichiometry.
total mass of reactants is equal to the total mass of products (i.e.
conservation of mass).

Calculations from chemical equations — reacting

masses
When the mass of one of the substances in the reaction is known, the
masses of other substances reacted or formed can be calculated based on
the balanced chemical equation. See ‘Problem-solving strategy 12.2’.

Problem-solving strategy 12.2 CE1999(II)8 CE2011(II)8

CE2005(I)10(b)(ii)
Calculating reacting masses from chemical equations
Try it now
Calculate the mass of magnesium oxide produced when 2.43 g of Calculate the mass of copper
magnesium burns completely in air. produced when 15.9 g of
copper(II) oxide reacts
completely with hydrogen.
1 Write down the balanced chemical equation for the reaction.
➊ CuO(s) + H2(g) Cu(s) + H2O()
2Mg(s) + O2(g) 2MgO(s)

2 Convert the mass(es) of the given substance(s) into number ➋ Molar mass of CuO
–1
of moles = (63.5 + 16.0) g mol
–1
= 79.5 g mol
–1 15.9
Molar mass of Mg = 24.3 g mol Number of moles of CuO = mol =
79.5
Number of moles of Mg 0.2 mol

mass (g)
= –1
molar mass (g mol )
2.43 g
= –1
24.3 g mol
= 0.100 mol

3 Use the balanced chemical equation to calculate the number ➌ From the equation, mole ratio of
of moles of the substance asked in the question. CuO to Cu is 1 : 1.
 number of moles of Cu = 0.2 mol
From the equation, mole ratio of
Mg : MgO = 2 : 2 (or simply 1 : 1)
 number of moles of MgO
= 0.100 mol

cont’d

12 20 stoichiometric coefficient 計量系數 quantitative relationship 定量關係

stoichiometry 化學計量學
 12 Reacting masses

4 Convert the number of moles of that substance into mass ➍ Mass of Cu produced = 0.2 × 63.5 g = 12.7 g
Molar mass of MgO
–1
= (24.3 + 16.0) g mol
–1
= 40.3 g mol
 mass of MgO produced
–1
= 0.100 mol × 40.3 g mol
= 4.03 g

The flow chart below illustrates the steps for determining the reacting
masses from a chemical equation.

Number of
Known divided by Number of by mole ratio multiplied by Mass of the
moles of the
mass of A moles of A substance asked
molar (shown in the substance asked molar mass of
in the question
mass of A equation) in the question that substance

(Note: A represents the chemical formula of a particular substance.)

H20 Example 12.11 CE2005(II)37

Determining the mass of a reactant from the mass of another reactant

Magnesium reacts with copper(II) oxide according to the following equation:
Mg(s) + CuO(s) MgO(s) + Cu(s)
Calculate the mass of magnesium required to react completely with 7.95 g of copper(II) oxide.
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Mg = 24.3, Cu = 63.5)
Solution
Step 1: Mg(s) + CuO(s) MgO(s) + Cu(s)
–1
Step 2: Molar mass of CuO = (63.5 + 16.0) g mol
–1
= 79.5 g mol
mass of CuO (g)
Number of moles of CuO = –1
molar mass of CuO (g mol )
7.95 g
= –1
79.5 g mol
= 0.100 mol
Step 3: From the equation, mole ratio of Mg : CuO = 1 : 1.
 number of moles of Mg = 0.100 mol
–1
Step 4: Molar mass of Mg = 24.3 g mol
 mass of Mg required
–1
= 0.100 mol × 24.3 g mol
= 2.43 g
cont’d

21 12
 III Metals
Self-test 12.11
–1 –1
Molar mass of PbO = (207.2 + 16.0) g mol = 223.2 g mol  number of moles of Mg required = 0.0473 mol
10.55 Mass of Mg required = 0.0473 × 24.3 g = 1.15 g
Number of moles of PbO = mol = 0.0473 mol
Self-test 12.11 223.2
From the equation, mole ratio of Mg to PbO is 1 : 1.

Magnesium reacts with lead(II) oxide according to the following equation:

Mg(s) + PbO(s) MgO(s) + Pb(s)
Calculate the mass of magnesium required to react completely with 10.55 g of lead(II) oxide.
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Mg = 24.3, Pb = 207.2)

H20 Example 12.12 CE2002(II)14 CE2006(II)12 CE2011(I)5(a)(iii)

CE2005(I)2(a)(iii) CE2007(II)34
Determining the mass of a product from the mass of a reactant
Lead(II) oxide reacts with carbon powder to give lead and carbon dioxide.
2PbO(s) + C(s) 2Pb(s) + CO2(g)
Calculate the mass of lead formed when 44.6 g of lead(II) oxide has completely reacted.
(Relative atomic masses: C = 12.0, O = 16.0, Pb = 207.2)
Solution
Step 1: 2PbO(s) + C(s) 2Pb(s) + CO2(g)
–1
Step 2: Molar mass of PbO = (207.2 + 16.0) g mol
–1
= 223.2 g mol
Number of moles of PbO reacted
mass (g)
= –1
molar mass (g mol )
44.6 g
= –1
223.2 g mol
= 0.200 mol
Step 3: From the equation, mole ratio of PbO : Pb = 2 : 2 = 1 : 1.
 number of moles of Pb = 0.200 mol
–1
Step 4: Molar mass of Pb = 207.2 g mol
 mass of Pb formed
–1 Self-test 12.12
= 0.200 mol × 207.2 g mol Number of moles of Na reacted =
8.51
mol = 0.37 mol
23.0
= 41.4 g
From the equation, mole ratio of Na to H2 is 2 : 1.
 number of moles of H2 formed = 0.37 mol = 0.185 mol
Self-test 12.12 2
Mass of H2 produced = 0.185 × 1.0 × 2 g = 0.37 g

Sodium reacts with water to give sodium hydroxide and hydrogen according to the following
equation:
2Na(s) + 2H2O(,) 2NaOH(aq) + H2(g)
Calculate the mass of hydrogen formed when 8.51 g of sodium reacts completely with water.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, O = 16.0, Na = 23.0)

12 22
 12 Reacting masses

Limiting reactant
Consider the reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to form water:
2H2(g) + O2(g) 2H2O(,)
From the equation, only 1 molecule of oxygen is required to react with 2
molecules of hydrogen for complete reaction. See Figure 12.5.

H2 molecule H2O molecule

O2 molecule

2 H2 molecules + 2 O2 molecules 2 H2O molecules + 1 O2 molecule

Figure 12.5 Two hydrogen molecules require one oxygen molecule for complete reaction.
Therefore, oxygen is in excess.

In this case, oxygen is in excess. All hydrogen has reacted. The amount
of water produced is limited by the amount of hydrogen used. Therefore,
hydrogen is called the limiting reactant. The limiting reactant limits the
amount of the product formed in a reaction.

H20 Example 12.13 DSE2014(IA)4

DSE2014(IA)19
Calculating reacting masses involving limiting reactant
Calculate the mass of zinc formed when 8.14 g of zinc oxide are heated with 2.20 g of carbon powder.
(Relative atomic masses: C = 12.0, O = 16.0, Zn = 65.4)

Solution
Step 1: 2ZnO(s) + C(s) 2Zn(s) + CO2(g)
–1
Step 2: Molar mass of ZnO = (65.4 + 16.0) g mol
–1
= 81.4 g mol
8.14 g
Number of moles of ZnO = –1
81.4 g mol
= 0.100 mol
–1
Molar mass of C = 12.0 g mol
2.20 g
Number of moles of C = –1
12.0 g mol
= 0.183 mol
cont’d

limiting reactant 限量反應物

23 12
 III Metals

Step 3: From the equation, mole ratio of ZnO : C = 2 : 1.

 0.100 mol of ZnO would react with 0.100 = 0.0500 mol of C
2
Since 0.183 mol of C is heated, C is in excess.
ZnO is the limiting reactant in this case, as it is all used up.
From the equation, mole ratio of ZnO : Zn = 2 : 2 = 1 : 1.
 number of moles of Zn formed = 0.100 mol
–1
Step 4: Molar mass of Zn = 65.4 g mol
 mass of Zn formed Self-test 12.13
–1 –1
–1 Molar mass of NO = (14.0 + 16.0) g mol = 30.0 g mol
= 0.100 mol × 65.4 g mol 26.58
Number of moles of NO = mol = 0.886 mol
= 6.54 g 30.0
–1 –1
Molar mass of O2 = 16.0 × 2 g mol = 32.0 g mol
8.06
Number of moles of O2 = mol = 0.252 mol
Self-test 12.13 32.0
From the equation, mole ratio of NO to O2 = 2 : 1.
 O2 is the limiting reactant.
Calculate the mass of nitrogen dioxide formed when 26.58 g of nitrogen monoxide reacts with 8.06 g
–1 –1
of oxygen according to the following equation: Molar mass of NO2 = (14.0 + 16.0 × 2) g mol = 46.0 g mol
From the equation, mole ratio of O2 to NO2 = 1 : 2.
2NO(g) + O2(g) 2NO2(g)
 number of moles of NO2 formed = 0.252 × 2 mol = 0.504 mol
(Relative atomic masses: N = 14.0, O = 16.0) Mass of NO2 formed = 0.504 × 46.0 g = 23.2 g

Theoretical yield, actual yield and percentage

yield
Theoretical yield is the amount of product expected if the reaction
proceeds exactly as shown in the chemical equation. Actual yield is the
amount of product actually obtained from a reaction. The actual yield of
a reaction is often less than the theoretical yield because:
• the reaction is incomplete.
• impurities are present in the reactants.
• side reactions occur in which unwanted side products are produced.
• some product is lost during different experimental processes, such as
purification.

The efficiency of a chemical reaction can be expressed by the

percentage yield.

Key point
actual yield
Percentage yield = × 100%
theoretical yield

12 24 actual yield 實際產量

percentage yield 百分產率
side reaction 副反應
theoretical yield 理論產量
side product 副產品
 12 Reacting masses

H20 Example 12.14 CE2006(I)5(d)

Calculating the theoretical yield and actual yield of a product

In an experiment, 15.9 g of copper(II) oxide was heated with 0.60 g of hydrogen according to the
following reaction:
CuO(s) + H2(g) Cu(s) + H2O(,)
(a) Calculate the theoretical yield of copper.
(b) Given the percentage yield of copper is 82%. Calculate the actual yield of copper.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, O = 16.0, Cu = 63.5)

Solution
(a) Step 1: CuO(s) + H2(g) Cu(s) + H2O(,)
–1
Step 2: Molar mass of CuO = (63.5 + 16.0) g mol
–1
= 79.5 g mol
15.9 g
Number of moles of CuO = –1
79.5 g mol
= 0.20 mol
–1 –1
Molar mass of H2 = (1.0 × 2) g mol = 2.0 g mol
0.60 g
Number of moles of H2 = –1
2.0 g mol
= 0.30 mol
Step 3: From the equation, mole ratio of CuO : H2 = 1 : 1.
 0.20 mol of CuO would react with 0.20 mol of H2.
Since 0.30 mol of H2 is heated, H2 is in excess.
CuO is the limiting reactant in this case, as it is all used up.
From the equation, mole ratio of CuO : Cu = 1 : 1.
 number of moles of Cu formed = 0.20 mol
–1
 theoretical yield of Cu = 0.20 mol × 63.5 g mol
= 12.7 g Self-test 12.14 430
(a) Number of moles of H2 = mol = 215 mol
1.0 × 2
(b) Actual yield of Cu = theoretical yield (g) × percentage yield (%)
= 12.7 g × 82% –1
Molar mass of CH3OH = (12.0 + 1.0 × 4 + 16.0) g mol = 32.0 g mol
–1

From the equation, mole ratio of H2 to CH3OH = 2 : 1.

= 10.4 g
 number of moles of CH3OH produced = 215 mol = 107.5 mol
2
Self-test 12.14 Theoretical yield of CH3OH = 107.5 × 32.0 g = 3440 g
(b) Actual yield of CH3OH = 3440 g × 45% = 1548 g

Methanol (CH3OH) can be produced from carbon monoxide and hydrogen according to the following
equation:
CO(g) + 2H2(g) CH3OH(g)
(a) Calculate the theoretical yield of methanol when 430 g hydrogen reacts with excess carbon
monoxide.
(b) Given the percentage yield of methanol is 45%, calculate the actual yield of methanol.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, O = 16.0)
Try Chapter Exercise Q27

25 12
 III Metals

Class practice 12.8

1. Upon strong heating, silver oxide decomposes to silver and oxygen.
Calculate the mass of silver obtained when 6.96 g of silver oxide is
strongly heated in air.
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Ag = 107.9)
2. Titanium can be prepared by the reaction of titanium(IV) chloride with
molten magnesium.
TiCl4(g) + 2Mg(,) Ti(s) + 2MgCl2(,)
6
Calculate the mass of titanium obtained when 5.42 × 10 g of magnesium
7
were allowed to react with 1.77 × 10 g of titanium(IV) chloride.
(Relative atomic masses: Mg = 24.3, Cl = 35.5, Ti = 47.9)
3. A student performed the following experiment to prepare calcium
hydroxide. 1.50 g of calcium granules was dissolved in a large amount of
water. The calcium hydroxide precipitate was then filtered off, washed and
dried.
(a) Write an equation for the reaction of calcium with water.
(b) Calculate the theoretical mass of calcium hydroxide obtained.
(c) The mass of calcium hydroxide obtained from the experiment was
much less than the theoretical value. Explain why there was such a
difference.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, O = 16.0, Ca = 40.1)

A12.8
1. 2Ag2O(s) 4Ag(s) + O2(g)
6.96
Number of moles of Ag2O used = mol = 0.0300 mol
107.9 × 2 + 16.0
From the equation, mole ratio of Ag2O to Ag is 1 : 2.
 number of moles of Ag produced = 0.0300 × 2 mol = 0.0600 mol
Mass of Ag produced = 0.0600 × 107.9 g = 6.47 g
6
5.42 × 10
2. Number of moles of Mg used = mol = 223 045 mol
24.3
7
1.77 × 10
Number of moles of TiCl4 used = mol = 93 207 mol
47.9 + 35.5 × 4
From the equation, mole ratio of TiCl4 to Mg is 1 : 2.
 TiCl4 is the limiting reactant.
From the equation, mole ratio of TiCl4 to Ti is 1 : 1.
 number of moles of Ti formed = 93 207 mol
Mass of Ti formed = 93 207 × 47.9 g = 4 464 615 g

3. (a) Ca(s) + 2H2O() Ca(OH)2(s) + H2(g)

1.50
(b) Number of moles of Ca used = mol = 0.0374 mol
40.1
From the equation, mole ratio of Ca to Ca(OH)2 = 1 : 1.
 number of moles of Ca(OH)2 formed = 0.0374 mol
Theoretical mass of Ca(OH)2 formed
= 0.0374 × [40.1 + (16.0 + 1.0) × 2] g = 2.77 g
(c) Possible reasons:
The calcium used was impure.
Some calcium hydroxide was lost during filtration.

12 26
 12 Reacting masses

Key terms
PowerPoint

English term Chinese translation Page

1. actual yield 實際產量 24

2. Avogadro constant 亞佛加德羅常數 3

3. composition by mass 質量組成 12

4. empirical formula 實驗式 10

5. limiting reactant 限量反應物 23

6. molar mass 摩爾質量 4

7. mole 摩爾 3

8. molecular formula 分子式 10

9. percentage by mass 質量百分比 7

10. percentage yield 百分產率 24

11. structural formula 結構式 10

12. theoretical yield 理論產量 24

A12.6 3.
C H
1.
Mg O Mass (g) 0.857 1.000 – 0.857 = 0.143
Mass (g) 28.698 – 28.092 = 0.606 29.103 – 28.698 = 0.405 Relative
12.0 1.0
Relative atomic mass
24.3 16.0
atomic mass Number of
0.857 0.143
Number of moles of = 0.0714 = 0.143
0.606 0.405 atoms (mol) 12.0 1.0
moles of = 0.0249 = 0.0253
atoms (mol) 24.3 16.0
Simplest
Simplest whole 0.0714 0.143
=1 =2
whole 0.0249 0.0253 number mole 0.0714 0.0714
=1 = 1.02  1 ratio of atoms
number mole 0.0249 0.0249
ratio of atoms
 the empirical formula of the compound is CH2.
 the empirical formula of the oxide of magnesium is MgO. 4. Assume that there are 100 g of X. Then, there are 26.95 g of
12.0
2. Mass of C in the compound = 1.173 × g = 0.320 g sulphur, 13.44 g of oxygen and 59.61 g of chlorine.
12.0 + 16.0 × 2
1.0 × 2
Mass of H in the compound = 0.240 × g = 0.0267 g S O Cl
1.0 × 2 + 16.0
Mass of O in the compound = (1.200 – 0.320 – 0.0267) g = 0.853 g Mass (g) 26.95 13.44 59.61
Relative
C H O 32.1 16.0 35.5
atomic mass
Mass (g) 0.320 0.0267 0.853 Number of
26.95 13.44 59.61
moles of = 0.840 = 0.84 = 1.68
Relative atoms (mol) 32.1 16.0 35.5
12.0 1.0 16.0
atomic mass
Simplest
Number of whole 0.840 0.84 1.68
0.320 0.0267 0.853 =1 =1 =2
moles of = 0.0267 = 0.0267 = 0.0533 number mole
12.0 1.0 16.0 0.840 0.84 0.84
atoms (mol) ratio of atoms
Simplest
whole 0.0267 0.0267 0.0533  the empirical formula of the compound is SOCl2.
=1 =1 =2
number mole 0.0267 0.0267 0.0267
ratio of atoms

 the empirical formula of the compound is CHO2.

27 12
 III Metals

Progress check
PowerPoint

Can you answer the following questions? Put a ‘✓’ in the box if you can. Otherwise, review the relevant
part on the page as shown.

Page
1. What is the meaning of mole? 3

2. What is the Avogadro constant? 3

3. What is the meaning of molar mass? 4

4. How is the mole of a substance related to its mass and number of formula units? 5

5. How can we calculate the percentage by mass of an element in a compound? 7

6. What are empirical formula, molecular formula and structural formula? 10

7. How can we determine the empirical formula of a compound? 12–14

8. How can we determine the molecular formula of a compound? 15

9. What are the interrelationship between masses of reactants and products in a reaction? 20

10. How can we calculate masses of reactants and products in a reaction from the relevant
21
equation?

11. What is the meaning of a limiting reactant? 23

12. What are the meanings of actual yield and theoretical yield? 24

13. How can we calculate the percentage yield of a chemical reaction? 24

A12.7 C H O
12.0
1. Mass of C in the compound = 1.32 × g = 0.36 g
12.0 + 16.0 × 2 Mass (g) 40.00 6.67 53.33
1.0 × 2
Mass of H in the compound = 0.45 × g = 0.05 g Relative atomic
1.0 × 2 + 16.0 12.0 1.0 16.0
mass
Mass of O in the compound = (0.81 – 0.36 – 0.05) g = 0.40 g
Number of moles 40.00 6.67 53.33
= 3.33 = 6.67 = 3.33
C H O of atoms (mol) 12.0 1.0 16.0

Mass (g) 0.36 0.05 0.40 Simplest whole

3.33 6.67 3.33
number mole =1 =2 =1
Relative ratio of atoms 3.33 3.33 3.33
12.0 1.0 16.0
atomic mass
 the empirical formula of the compound is CH2O.
Number of
0.36 0.05 0.40 Let the molecular formula of the compound be (CH2O)n.
moles of = 0.03 = 0.05 = 0.025
atoms (mol) 12.0 1.0 16.0 60.0 = n × (12.0 + 1.0 × 2 + 16.0)
n=2
Simplest 0.03 0.05 0.025
whole = 1.2 =2 =1  the molecular formula of the compound is C2H4O2.
0.025 0.025 0.025
number mole 3. Assume that there are 100 g of Epsom salt. Then, there are 51.22 g
ratio of atoms 1.2 × 5 = 6 2 × 5 = 10 1×5=5
of water of crystallization and (100 – 51.22) g = 48.78 g of MgSO4.
 the empirical formula of the compound is C6H10O5. MgSO4 H2O
Let the molecular formula of the compound be (C6H10O5)n.
Mass (g) 48.78 51.22
320.0 = n × (12.0 × 6 + 1.0 × 10 + 16.0 × 5)
n = 1.98  2 Formula mass 24.3 + 32.1 + 16.0 × 4 = 120.4 1.0 × 2 + 16.0 = 18.0
 the molecular formula of the compound is C12H20O10. Number of moles of 48.78 51.22
= 0.4051 = 2.85
2. Assume that there are 100 g of the compound. Then, there are 40.00 g formula units (mol) 120.4 18.0
of carbon, 6.67 g of hydrogen and 53.33 g of oxygen. Simplest whole
0.4051 2.85
number mole ratio of =1 = 7.04  7
formula units 0.4051 0.4051
12 28
 the value of n is 7.
 12 Reacting masses

Summary
PowerPoint

12.1 The mole, Avogadro constant and molar mass

1. Chemists use mole (abbreviation: mol) to describe the quantity of particles in a substance.

2. The Avogadro constant (L) is the number of atoms in exactly 12.0 g of carbon-12. It is equal
23 –1
to 6.02 × 10 mol .

3. The molar mass of a substance is its formula mass expressed in gram unit. The unit of molar
–1
mass is g mol .

4. Important relationships involving moles:

mass (g)

• Number of moles (mol) = –1
molar mass (g mol )
number of formula units

• Number of moles (mol) = –1
Avogadro constant (mol )

12.2 Percentage by mass of an element in a compound

5. The percentage by mass of an element in a compound can be found by the equation:

Percentage by mass of element A in a compound
relative atomic mass of A × number of atoms of A in the formula
= × 100%
formula mass of the compound

12.3 Chemical formulae of compounds

6. Chemical formulae are part of the language of chemistry. Some common chemical formulae
include empirical formula, molecular formula and structural formula.

12.4 Empirical formulae and molecular formulae derived from experimental data

7. Empirical formula of a compound is the formula which shows the simplest whole number ratio
of the atoms or ions present.

8. The empirical formula of a compound can be calculated from its composition by mass. The
composition of a compound has to be determined by experiment.

9. Molecular formula may be determined from empirical formula and relative molecular mass. This
is because molecular formula is a whole number multiple of empirical formula.

29 12
 III Metals

12.5 Reacting masses from chemical equations

10. The theoretical amounts of substances used up or produced in a reaction can be calculated from
its balanced equation.

11. Limiting reactant is the reactant that is completely used up in a reaction. It limits the amount of
product(s) formed in the reaction.

12. The theoretical amounts of product predicted by calculation from its balanced equation is called
theoretical yield. The actual yield of a reaction is often less than the theoretical yield.

13. Percentage yield is the ratio of actual yield and theoretical yield. It is a measure of the efficiency
of a chemical reaction.

actual yield
Percentage yield = × 100%
theoretical yield

12 30
 12 Reacting masses

Concept map
PowerPoint

Complete the following concept map.

Number of
Mass equals equals formula units
Number
of moles equals
Molar mass Avogadro constant
6.02 × 1023
formula units

without unit,
equals

Formula mass Relative molecular mass Empirical formula

equals equals determine

Molecular formula Chemical

Sum of relative Sum of relative formulae
atomic masses atomic masses of
of all atoms/ions in all atoms in a
a formula unit of a molecule
Structural formula
substance

(Hints: Avogadro constant, molar mass, molecular formula, molecule, relative atomic masses, relative
molecular mass, structural formula)

31 12
 III Metals

Chapter exercise
Fill in the blanks 2. One mole contains 6.02 × 10
23
particles —
this number is called the Avogadro constant .
Section 12.1
molar mass
1. The relative molecular mass of a molecular 3. The of a substance is the
relative atomic masses
compound is the sum of mass in grams of one mole of the substance.
of all atoms present in a
molecule of that compound.

Section 12.2
4. Percentage by mass of element A in a compound =
Relative atomic mass number
of A × of atoms of A in the formula
× 100%
Formula mass of the compound

Section 12.3 Section 12.5

empirical Limiting reactant
5. The formula of a compound is 7. is the substance which is
the formula which shows the simplest whole all used up in a chemical reaction.
number ratio of atoms or ions present. It can be
actual yield
composition
calculated from its by mass, which 8. Percentage yield = × 100%
can be determined by experiment. theoretical yield

6. Molecular formula may be determined from 9. (a) Number of sodium atoms

relative molecular mass 23 24
empirical formula and . = 2 × 6.02 × 10 = 1.204 × 10
(b) Number of moles of oxygen molecules
2
= mol = 0.0625 mol
16.0 × 2
Practice questions Number of oxygen atoms
23 22
= 0.0625 × 2 × 6.02 × 10 = 7.525 × 10
(c) Number of atoms in 1.5 moles of nitrogen dioxide gas
Section 12.1 23 24
= 1.5 × 3 × 6.02 × 10 = 2.709 × 10
9. Calculate the total number of atoms in the following substances.
(d) Number of atoms in 0.5 mole of sodium carbonate-10-water
(a) 2 moles of sodium metal 23
= 0.5 × 36 × 6.02 × 10 = 1.084 × 10
25

(b) 2 g of oxygen gas (e) Number of moles of aluminium sulphate

22
= mol = 0.0643 mol
(c) 1.5 moles of nitrogen dioxide gas (27.0 × 2) + (32.1 + 16.0 × 4) × 3
Number of atoms in 0.0643 mol of aluminium sulphate
(d) 0.5 mole of sodium carbonate-10-water 23 23
= 0.0643 × 17 × 6.02 × 10 = 6.58 × 10
(e) 22 g of aluminium sulphate
10. (a) Formula mass of CH4 = 12.0 + 1.0 × 4 = 16.0
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, N = 14.0, O = 16.0, Na = 23.0, Al = 27.0, S = 32.1)
12.0
× 100% = 75%
Percentage by mass of C in CH4 =
16.0
Section 12.2 (b) Formula mass of anhydrous Na 2 SO4

= 23.0 × 2 + 32.1 + 16.0 × 4 = 142.1

10. Calculate the percentage by mass of Percentage by mass of S in anhydrous Na2SO4
(a) carbon in methane, CH4 32.1
= × 100% = 22.6%
142.1
(b) sulphur in anhydrous sodium sulphate, Na2SO4 (c) Formula mass of Na2CO3․10H2O
= 23.0 × 2 + 12.0 + 16.0 × 3 + 10 × (1.0 × 2 + 16.0) = 286.0
(c) water in sodium carbonate-10-water, Na2CO3․10H2O
Percentage by mass of H2O in Na2CO3․10H2O
(d) oxygen in iron(II) sulphate-7-water, FeSO4․7H2O 10 × 18.0
= × 100% = 62.9%
286.0
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, O = 16.0, Na = 23.0, S = 32.1, Fe = 55.8)
(d) Formula mass of FeSO4․7H2O
= 55.8 + 32.1 + 16.0 × 4 + 7 × (1.0 × 2 + 16.0) = 277.9
Percentage by mass of O in FeSO4․7H2O
16.0 × 11
= × 100% = 63.3%
12 32 277.9
 12 Reacting masses
11. (a) Formula mass of CH4 = 12.0 + 1.0 × 4 = 16.0
1.0 × 4 (b) Formula mass of anhydrous Na2SO4
Percentage by mass of H in CH4 = × 100% = 25%
= 23.0 × 2 + 32.1 + 16.0 × 4 = 142.1
16.0
11. Find the mass of Mass of H in 10 g of CH4 = 10 g × 25% = 2.5 g Percentage by mass of Na in anhydrous Na2SO4
23.0 × 2
(a) hydrogen in 10 g of methane, CH4 = × 100% = 32.4%
142.1
Mass of Na in 50 g of anhydrous Na2SO4
(b) sodium in 50 g of anhydrous sodium sulphate, Na2SO4
= 50 g × 32.4% = 16.2 g
(c) chlorine in 2 moles of iron(III) chloride-6-water, FeCl3․6H2O (c) Formula mass of FeCl3․6H2O
(d) water in 1.25 moles of calcium chloride-6-water, CaCl2․6H2O = 55.8 + 35.5 × 3 + 6 × (1.0 × 2 + 16.0) = 270.3
Percentage by mass of Cl in FeCl3․6H2O
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, O = 16.0, Na = 23.0, S = 32.1, Cl = 35.5, Ca = 40.1,
35.5 × 3
Fe = 55.8) = × 100% = 39.4%
270.3
Mass of 2 moles of FeCl3․6H2O = 2 × 270.3 g = 540.6 g
Mass of Cl in 2 moles of FeCl3․6H2O
Section 12.4
= 540.6 × 39.4% = 213 g
12. Find the empirical formulae of compounds having the following composition by mass:
(d) Formula mass of CaCl2․6H2O
(a) 75% carbon, 25% hydrogen
= 40.1 + 35.5 × 2 + 6 × (1.0 × 2 + 16.0) = 219.1
6 × 18.0
(b) 86.6% lead, 13.4% oxygen Percentage by mass of H2O in CaCl2․6H2O = × 100% = 49.3%
219.1
(c) 36.5% sodium, 25.4% sulphur, 38.1% oxygen Mass of 1.25 moles of CaCl 2 ․6H 2O = 1.25 × 219.1 g = 273.9 g
Mass of H2O in 1.25 moles of CaCl2․6H2O = 273.9 × 49.3% = 135.0 g
(d) 40.67% carbon, 23.73% nitrogen, 27.13% oxygen, 8.47% hydrogen
(e) A hydrated salt containing 37.11% copper, 41.68% chlorine (the rest being water of crystallization)
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, N = 14.0, O = 16.0, Na = 23.0, S = 32.1, Cl = 35.5, Cu = 63.5,
Pb = 207.2) (Answers on the back page of p.12-35.)

Multiple-choice questions 15. If 2 g of helium gas contains y molecules, how

many molecules are present in 38 g of fluorine
13. (1): The molar mass of a substance is
Section 12.1 gas?
the mass in gram of one mole of it.
13. Which of the following statements is/are correct? (Relative atomic masses: He = 4.0, F = 19.0)
(1) The molar mass of a substance is the mass in 15. Number of helium molecules present in 2 g of
A. 1y 2
helium gas = y = × Avogadro constant
kilograms of one mole of it. 2 4.0
(2) One mole of oxygen gas has the same number B. y  Avogadro constant = 2y
Number of moles of fluorine molecules present in
of atoms as one mole of nitrogen gas. C. 2y
38 g of fluorine gas C
(3) One mole of oxygen gas has the same mass as D. 4y 38
= × Avogadro constant
19.0 × 2
one mole of nitrogen gas.
Section 12.2 = 38 × 2y = 2y
19.0 × 2
A. (1) only (2): Both molecules of oxygen and
nitrogen are diatomic.
16. The percentage by mass of water of crystallization
B. (2) only
(3): Molar mass of oxygen is (16.0 + in Na2CO3․H2O is
C. (1) and (3) only –1
16.0) g mol = 32.0 g mol ;
–1

B (Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0,

D. (2) and (3) only molar mass of nitrogen is
–1
(14.0 + 14.0) g mol = 28.0 g mol
–1 O = 16.0, Na = 23.0)
16. Percentage by mass of water of crystallization in
14. Which of the following substances contains the A. 13.0% Na2CO3․H2O
greatest number of atoms? B. 13.5% =
1.0 × 2 + 16.0
× 100%
23.0 × 2 + 12.0 + 16.0 × 3 + 1.0 × 2 + 16.0
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, Ne = 20.2, C. 14.0%
= 14.5%
D
Mg = 24.3, Cu = 63.5) D. 14.5%
A. 2.0 g of hydrogen
17. How many grams of iron can be extracted from
B. 24.3 g of magnesium
100 g of iron ore, which contains 70% by mass of
C. 30.3 g of neon
A
Fe3O4?
D. 31.8 g of copper
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Fe = 55.8)
2.0
14. (A): Number of moles of H2 molecules = mol = 1 mol Mass of Fe3O4 in 100 g of iron ore = 100 g × 70%
1.0 × 2 A. 16.9 g 17.
Number of moles of H atoms = 1 × 2 mol = 2 mol = 70 g
24.3 B. 24.1 g Mass of Fe in 70 g of Fe3O4
(B): Number of moles of Mg atoms = mol = 1 mol
24.3 C. 50.6 g = 70 ×
55.8 × 3
g = 50.6 g
30.3 55.8 × 3 + 16.0 × 4 C
(C): Number of moles of Ne atoms =
20.2
mol = 1.5 mol D. 72.3 g
31.8
(D): Number of moles of Cu atoms = mol = 0.501 mol
63.5
33 12
29
 III Metals 20. R(s) + Cl2(g) RCl2(s)
5.33
Number of moles of Cl2 used = mol
35.5 × 2
= 0.0751 mol
Section 12.4 20. 4.76 g of metal R combine with 5.33 g of chlorine
18. The relative atomic mass of metal X is 40.1. When to form a chloride in which the charge of the ion
metal X burns in air, an oxide forms. It is found of R is +2. What is the relative atomic mass of R?
that 8.42 g of the oxide contains 2.40 g of oxygen. (Relative atomic mass of Cl = 35.5)
Calculate the mole ratio of X to oxygen in the From the equation, mole ratio of R to Cl is 1 : 1.
A. 63.4 2

 number of moles of R used = 0.0751 mol

oxide. B. 63.6 Let the molar mass of R be y g mol–1.
(Relative atomic mass of O = 16.0) C. 65.3 0.0751 = 4.76
y A
A. 1:1 D. 65.5 y = 63.4
18. Mass of metal X in the oxide = (8.42 – 2.40) g
B. 1:2 = 6.02 g 21. Calcium carbonate decomposes on heating to give
C. 2:1 Mass of O in the oxide = 2.40 g
A quicklime (calcium oxide) and carbon dioxide.
D. 1:3 6.02
Number of moles of X 40.1 0.150 1 What mass of calcium oxide is produced if the
= = =
Number of moles of O 2.40 0.150 1 decomposition of 10.01 g of calcium carbonate is
Section 12.5
16.0
complete?
19. If 20.0 g of water is completely decomposed into
hydrogen and oxygen, the total mass of gases (Relative atomic masses: C = 12.0, O = 16.0,
formed is Ca = 40.1)
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, O = 16.0) A. 4.84 g
19. 2H2O() 2H2(g) + O2(g) B. 5.61 g
A. 1.11 g Number of moles of H2O used = 20.0
mol
1.0 × 2 + 16.0 C. 7.21 g
B. 2.22 g = 1.11 mol B
D. 9.62 g
C. 17.8 g From the equation, mole ratio of H2O : H2 :
D 21. CaCO3(s) CaO(s) + CO2(g)
D. 20.0 g O2 = 2 : 2 : 1.
 number of moles of H2 and O2 are 1.11 mol 10.01
Number of moles of CaCO3 used = mol = 0.1 mol
and 0.555 mol respectively. 40.1 + 12.0 + 16.0 × 3
From the equation, mole ratio of CaCO3 to CaO = 1 : 1.
Mass of H2 gas = 1.11 × 2 g = 2.22 g
 mass of CaO produced = 0.1 × (40.1 + 16.0) g = 5.61 g
Mass of O2 gas = 0.555 × 32.0 g = 17.76 g
Total mass of gases formed = (2.22 + 17.76) g = 19.98 g  20.0 g

Structured questions
Section 12.2
22. Fluoride is usually present in toothpastes. Some toothpastes contain tin(II) fluoride.

(a) Write the chemical formula of tin(II) fluoride.

(b) Calculate the formula mass of tin(II) fluoride.
(c) Calculate the percentage by mass of fluorine in tin(II) fluoride.
(d) A tube of toothpaste contains 1.50 g of tin(II) fluoride. Calculate the mass of fluorine in this tube of
toothpaste. 22. (a) SnF2
(b) Formula mass of SnF2 = (118.7 + 19.0 × 2) = 156.7
(Relative atomic masses: F = 19.0, Sn = 118.7) 19.0 × 2
(c) Percentage by mass of F in SnF2 = × 100% = 24.3%
156.7
(d) Mass of F in 1.50 g of SnF2
= 1.50 g × 24.3% = 0.365 g

12 34
 12 Reacting masses

Section 12.4
23. In an experiment, when sodium was heated in air, it caught fire and formed an oxide. It was found that the
mass of the sample increased by 35% after heating. In another experiment, when sodium was heated in pure
oxygen, another oxide formed. The increase in mass was found to be 70%. Determine the empirical
formulae of the two oxides of sodium. (Answers on the back page of p.12-35.)
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Na = 23.0)

24. Paracetamol is a common ingredient in some drugs that relieve pain and reduce fever.
Paracetamol has a relative molecular mass of 151.0 and it contains 63.58% by mass of carbon, 5.96% by
mass of hydrogen, 9.27% by mass of nitrogen and 21.19% by mass of oxygen. Calculate its molecular
formula. (Answers on the back page of p.12-35.)
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, N = 14.0, O = 16.0)

25. 13.07 g of hydrated sodium carbonate, Na2CO3․nH2O, on strong heating, gave 8.23 g of water.
(a) Calculate the mass of anhydrous sodium carbonate (Na2CO3). (Answers on the back page of p.12-35.)

(b) Calculate the formula mass of anhydrous sodium carbonate.

(c) Calculate the number of moles of anhydrous sodium carbonate in the sample.
(d) Calculate the number of moles of water in the sample.
(e) Calculate the value of n. 2.00
26. (a) Number of moles of C2H2 = mol = 0.0769 mol
(12.0 × 2 + 1.0 × 2)
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, O = 16.0, Na = 23.0)
5.20
Number of moles of Br2 = mol = 0.0325 mol
79.9 × 2
Section 12.5 From the equation, mole ratio of C2H2 to Br2 is 1 : 2.
26. Ethyne (C2H2) reacts with bromine (Br2) to form tetrabromoethane (C2H2Br4).
C2H2(g) + 2Br2(,) C2H2Br4(,)
In an experiment, 2.00 g of ethyne reacted with 5.20 g of bromine. 5.02 g of tetrabromoethane was produced
in the reaction.  Br2 is the limiting reactant.
0.0325
Number of moles of C2H2Br4 formed =mol = 0.0163 mol
(a) Calculate the theoretical yield of C2H2Br4(,). 2
Theoretical yield of C2H2Br4 = 0.0163 × (12.0 × 2 + 1.0 × 2 + 79.9 × 4) g
(b) Calculate the percentage yield of the reaction. = 5.63 g
5.02 g
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, C = 12.0, Br = 79.9) (b) Percentage yield of the reaction = × 100% = 89.2%
5.63 g

27. To prepare iron(III) oxide, 5.91 g of iron was dissolved in excess dilute hydrochloric acid to give a solution
2+ 2+
containing Fe ions. The solution was then boiled with concentrated nitric acid to convert all Fe ions to
3+ 3+
Fe ions. Excess sodium hydroxide solution was added to precipitate all Fe ions as iron(III) hydroxide,
Fe(OH)3. The precipitate was filtered, washed, dried and finally heated to convert the precipitate to iron(III)
oxide, Fe2O3. 27. (a) The whole process may be represented by a sequence of steps:
2+ 3+
Fe Fe Fe Fe(OH)3 Fe2O3
(a) Calculate the theoretical yield of iron(III) oxide.
And the whole process can be represented by the overall equation:
(b) The mass of iron(III) oxide actually obtained from the experiment was 7.95 g.
2Fe Fe2O3 (the ‘2’ is added to balance the number of Fe atoms)
(i) Calculate the percentage yield of iron(III) oxide.
Thus, mole ratio of Fe to Fe2O3 = 2 : 1.
(ii) Compare the actual yield with the theoretical yield and give TWO possible reasons for the
difference. 5.91
Number of moles of Fe = mol = 0.106 mol
55.8
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Fe = 55.8) 0.106
Number of moles of Fe2O3 formed = mol = 0.053 mol
2
–1 –1
Molar mass of Fe2O3 = (55.8 × 2 + 16.0 × 3) g mol = 159.6 g mol
Theoretical yield of Fe2O3 = 0.053 × 159.6 g = 8.46 g
7.95 g
27. (b) (i) Percentage yield of iron(III) oxide = × 100% = 94.0%
8.46 g
(ii) The actual yield is smaller than the theoretical yield. The possible reasons for the difference (Any TWO):
– The reaction was incomplete.
– The iron used might be impure.
– There was a loss of materials during various experimental processes, e.g. filtration.
35 12
29
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12. (a) Assume that there are 100 g of the compound. 23. Assume that the mass of the sodium to be 1 g.
Oxide of sodium formed in air:
C H
Na O
Mass (g) 75 25
Mass (g) 1 0.35
Number of
75 25
moles of = 6.25 = 25 Number of
atoms (mol) 12.0 1.0 1 0.35
moles of = 0.0435 = 0.0219
atoms (mol) 23.0 16.0
Simplest
whole 6.25 25 Simplest
=1 =4
number mole 6.25 6.25 whole 0.0435 0.0219
ratio of atoms = 1.99  2 =1
number mole 0.0219 0.0219
 the empirical formula of the compound is CH4. ratio of atoms
(b) Assume that there are 100 g of the compound.  the empirical formula of the oxide of sodium formed in air is Na2O.
Oxide of sodium formed in pure oxygen:
Pb O
Na O
Mass (g) 86.6 13.4
Mass (g) 1 0.70
Number of
86.6 13.4
moles of = 0.418 = 0.838
207.2 16.0 Number of
atoms (mol) 1 0.70
moles of = 0.0435 = 0.0438
Simplest atoms (mol) 23.0 16.0
whole 0.418 0.838
=1 =2 Simplest
number mole 0.418 0.418 whole 0.0435 0.0438
ratio of atoms =1 =1
number mole 0.0435 0.0435
 the empirical formula of the compound is PbO2. ratio of atoms
(c) Assume that there are 100 g of the compound.  the empirical formula of the oxide of sodium formed in pure oxygen
is NaO.
Na S O
24. Assume that there are 100 g of paracetamol.
Mass (g) 36.5 25.4 38.1
C H N O
Number of
36.5 25.4 38.1
moles of = 1.59 = 0.79 = 2.38 Mass (g) 63.58 5.96 9.27 21.19
atoms (mol) 23.0 32.1 16.0

Simplest Number of
63.58 5.96 9.27 21.19
whole 1.59 0.79 2.38 moles of = 5.30 = 5.96 = 0.66 = 1.32
= 2.01  2 =1 = 3.01  3 atoms (mol) 12.0 1.0 14.0 16.0
number mole 0.79 0.79 0.79
ratio of atoms Simplest
whole 5.30 5.96 0.662 1.32
 the empirical formula of the compound is Na2SO3. =8 =9 =1 = 1.99  2
number mole 0.662 0.662 0.662 0.662
(d) Assume that there are 100 g of the compound. ratio of atoms

C N O H  the empirical formula of paracetamol is C8H9NO2.

Let the molecular formula of paracetamol be (C8H9NO2)n.
Mass (g) 40.67 23.73 27.13 8.47 n × (12.0 × 8 + 1.0 × 9 + 14.0 + 16.0 × 2) = 151.0
n=1
Number of
40.67 23.73 27.13 8.47  the molecular formula of paracetamol is C8H9NO2.
moles of = 3.39 = 1.70 = 1.70 = 8.47
atoms (mol) 12.0 14.0 16.0 1.0
25. (a) Mass of anhydrous Na2CO3 = (13.07 – 8.23) g = 4.84 g
Simplest (b) Formula mass of anhydrous Na2CO3
whole 3.39 1.70 1.70 8.47
= 1.99  2 =1 =1 = 4.98  5 = (23.0 × 2 + 12.0 + 16.0 × 3) = 106.0
number mole 1.70 1.70 1.70 1.70
ratio of atoms (c) Number of moles of anhydrous Na2CO3 in the sample
4.84
= mol = 0.0457 mol
 the empirical formula of the compound is C2NOH5. 106.0
(e) Assume that there are 100 g of the compound. (d) Number of moles of H2O in the sample
8.23
= mol = 0.457 mol
Cu Cl H2O 18.0
(e)
(100 – 37.11 – Na2CO3 H2O
Mass (g) 37.11 41.68
41.68) = 21.21
Number of moles of
Number of moles 0.0457 0.457
37.11 41.68 21.21 formula units (mol)
of formula units = 0.584 = 1.174 = 1.178
(mol) 63.5 35.5 18.0
Simplest whole
0.0457 0.457
number mole ratio =1 = 10
Simplest whole of formula units 0.0457 0.0457
0.584 1.174 1.178
number mole ratio =1 = 2.01  2 = 2.02  2
of formula units 0.584 0.584 0.584
 the value of n is 10.
 the empirical formula of the compound is CuCl2․2H2O.