The student is incorrect; the empirical formula should reflect the simplest whole-number ratio of the elements in the sample. Since there are 50 moles of carbon and 50 moles of oxygen, the correct empirical formula is actually CO2, as it indicates a one-to-one ratio, but does not account for the fact that for every one mole of carbon, there can be more than one mole of oxygen in the compound, maintaining the same proportion.
A student calculated that a sample contained 50 moles of carbon and 50 moles of oxygen. The student then stated that the empirical formula of the sample must be CO . Is the student correct? Explain your answer in 1-2 sentences
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