An organic compound contains 72% carbon, 12% hydrogen and 16% oxygen by mass. The empirical…

An organic compound contains 72% carbon, 12% hydrogen and 16% oxygen by mass. The empirical formula of the compound is

Correct Answer: Option D

Explanation

carbon = 72%, hydrogen = 12%, 16%
Dividing by the atomic weight we have for C = (frac{5}{1}) = 6
H = (frac{12}{1}) = 12
O = (frac{16}{16}) = 1
Divide by the smallest number, we have = (frac{6}{1}) = 6
H = (frac{12}{1}) = 12
O = (frac{1}{1}) = 1
The formula is C₆H₁₂O