Scientists use chemical formulas to show the type and number of atoms in a compound. The chemical formula for ethanol is Upper C Subscript 2 Upper H Subscript 5 Upper O Upper H.

Question

 
How many atoms of each element are found in 1 molecule of ethanol?
Answer options with 4 options
A.
1 carbon atom, 1 hydrogen atom, and 1 oxygen atom
B.
2 carbon atoms, 6 hydrogen atoms, and 1 oxygen atom
C.
2 carbon atoms, 5 hydrogen atoms, and 1 oxygen atom
D.
1 carbon atom, 3 hydrogen atoms, and 5 oxygen atoms

Answer 1

The chemical formula for ethanol is C₂H₅OH.

To determine the number of atoms of each element in 1 molecule of ethanol, we can break down the formula:

• C (Carbon): There are 2 carbon atoms (C₂).
• H (Hydrogen): There are 5 hydrogen atoms from the C₂H₅ part, and 1 hydrogen atom from the OH part, making a total of 6 hydrogen atoms.
• O (Oxygen): There is 1 oxygen atom (from the OH part).

So, in total, there are:

• 2 carbon atoms
• 6 hydrogen atoms
• 1 oxygen atom

The correct answer is: B. 2 carbon atoms, 6 hydrogen atoms, and 1 oxygen atom.