Verla
ChemistryGeneral Chemistry

How to Calculate Empirical Formula from P/O and K/H/P/O Percentages

Convert two complete percent-composition datasets to mole ratios, giving P₂O₅ and KH₂PO₄ with reverse checks.

Question

Determine the empirical formulas for compounds with the following percent compositions:

(a) 43.6% phosphorus and 56.4% oxygen (b) 28.7% K, 1.5% H, 22.8% P, and 47.0% O

This question has been answered.

Explore the full answer and supporting references to better understand this question.

Verla BasicBest value

$19.99/month

  • Everything in Study Pass
  • Assignments with writing output
  • AI detection and humanizer
  • Basic quotas across every tool
Study Pass

$0.99/month

  • Entire question library
  • Knowledge guides and sources
  • Detailed answers and explanations
  • No AI tools or quotas

Evidence boundary

The percentages and two-part scope follow OpenStax Chemistry 2e Exercise 38. The 100 g basis is a calculation convenience, not an experimental sample. Atomic masses are rounded working values; small noninteger ratios come from the precision of the supplied composition. No molecular molar mass is given.