An empirical formula of a compound shows the simplest whole-number ratio of the atoms present. Determine the empirical formula of the compound with the following composition by mass: 40.0% carbon, 6.7% hydrogen, and 53.3% oxygen.
The empirical formula provides a quick and convenient way to express the relative proportions of different elements in a compound. It is particularly useful when the exact molecular formula of a compound is unknown or difficult to determine.
