Q3.3P - Chemistry: Molecular Nature Of Matter And Change

Question

3.3 why might the expression "1 mol of chlorine" be confusing? What change would remove any uncertainty? For what other elements might a similar confusion exist? Why?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

1 mol of chlorine can refer to 1 mol of chlorine atoms or 1 mol of chlorine molecules. To be clear, we must state whether we're discussing molecules or atoms.

Any constituent that makes up a non-monoatomic molecule could have a similar level of uncertainty (Bromine, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Iodine, or Hydrogen).

Step 1: Introduction to the mole concept

A mole of a substance is the same number of molecules as there are carbon-12 atoms in exactly 12 g of carbon-12. From the mole concept, one mole of chlorine is equal to one mol of $\mathbf{CI}$ or one mol of ${\mathbf{CI}}_{\mathbf{2}}$.

Step 2: Explanation for Uncertainty

1 mol of chlorine can refer to either 1 mol of chlorine molecules or 1 mol of chlorine atoms. So, for avoiding uncertainty and confusion, the formula is considered. 

Step 3: Explanation for Uncertainty

A similar level of ambiguity could arise in any element that forms a non-monoatomic molecule such as Bromine, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Iodine, or Hydrogen. These molecules also exist as diatomic molecules, so if 1 mol of them is given instead of using the formula it will create confusion.