If 0.85 mol of a diatomic molecule has a mass of 23.8g, identify the molecule? We tried to multiply .85 mol and 23.8g and then multiply by 2 to get an answer, but I believe I might be heading in the wrong direction.

Answer 1

The mistake you're making is trying to manipulate the numbers to get answer; i.e., guessing. Reason it out. You know mol = grams/molar mass.
mol = grams/molar mass
0.85 mol = 23.8/molar mass
molar mass = ? approx 28
Therefore X2 = 28 and X must be 28/2 = ? You should have no problem