Q4 E - Chemistry (OpenStax)

Question

Samples of compound X, Y, and Z are analyzed, with results shown here.

Do these data provide example(s) of the law of definite proportions, the law of multiple proportions, neither, or both? What do these data tell you about compounds X, Y, and Z?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Compound X+Z show law of definite proportions. X+Y and Y+Z show law of multiple proportions.

Step1: law of definite proportions :

The law of definite proportions states that every chemical compound has set and constant proportions of its constituent parts (by mass).

Step 2: law of multiple proportions:

When two elements combine to generate more than one compound, the weights of one element that combine with a fixed weight of the other are in a ratio of tiny whole numbers, according to the law of multiple proportions.

Step 3: Compound X:

1.776g/0.148 g = 12 g

Step 4: Compound Y:

1.974g / 0.329g = 6g

Step 5: Compound Z:

7.812g / 0.652g = 12g