Hart Rose
05/05/2024 · Junior High School

An unknown compound has the following chemical formula: \[ \mathrm{P}_{\mathrm{x}} \mathrm{Cl}_{5} \] where \( x \) stands for a whole number. Measurements also show that a certain sample of the unknown compound contains 4.7 mol of phosphorus and 23.59 mol of chlorine. Write the complete chemical formula for the unknown compound.

UpStudy ThothAI Solution

Tutor-Verified Answer

Step-by-step Solution

To determine the complete chemical formula for the unknown compound \(\mathrm{P}_{\mathrm{x}} \mathrm{Cl}_{5}\), we need to find the value of \(x\). We know from the problem that the sample contains: - 4.7 mol of phosphorus (P) - 23.59 mol of chlorine (Cl) The formula \(\mathrm{P}_{\mathrm{x}} \mathrm{Cl}_{5}\) indicates that for every \(x\) moles of phosphorus, there are 5 moles of chlorine. To find the ratio of phosphorus to chlorine, we can set up the following relationship based on the moles present: \[ \frac{\text{moles of P}}{\text{moles of Cl}} = \frac{4.7}{23.59} \] Now, we can express the ratio of phosphorus to chlorine in terms of \(x\): \[ \frac{x}{5} = \frac{4.7}{23.59} \] To find \(x\), we can cross-multiply: \[ x \cdot 23.59 = 4.7 \cdot 5 \] Calculating the right side: \[ 4.7 \cdot 5 = 23.5 \] Now we have: \[ x \cdot 23.59 = 23.5 \] To solve for \(x\), we divide both sides by 23.59: \[ x = \frac{23.5}{23.59} \approx 0.995 \] Since \(x\) must be a whole number, we round \(0.995\) to the nearest whole number, which is \(1\). Thus, the complete chemical formula for the unknown compound is: \[ \mathrm{P}_{1} \mathrm{Cl}_{5} \quad \text{or simply} \quad \mathrm{PCl}_{5} \]

Quick Answer

The chemical formula for the unknown compound is PCl5.
Answered by UpStudy AI and reviewed by a Professional Tutor
UpStudy ThothAI
Self-Developed and Ever-Improving
Thoth AI product is constantly being upgraded and optimized.
Covers All Major Subjects
Capable of handling homework in math, chemistry, biology, physics, and more.
Instant and Accurate
Provides immediate and precise solutions and guidance.
Try Now
Ask Tutors
Ask AI
10x
Fastest way to Get Answers & Solutions
By text

Enter your question here…

By image
Re-Upload
Uploaded Files
xxxx.png0%
Submit
📸 STUDY CAN BE A REAL STRUGGLE
Why Not UpStudy It?
Select your plan below
Premium

You can enjoy

  • Step-by-step explanations
  • 24/7 expert live tutors
  • Unlimited number of questions
  • No interruptions
  • Full access to answer and
    solution
Basic
  • Limited Solutions