Question on: JAMB Chemistry - 2024

Here's how to determine the empirical formula:

1. Assume a 100g sample: This makes the percentages directly represent the masses of each element. Therefore, we have 60g of Oxygen and 40g of Sulfur (100g - 60g).
2. Convert masses to moles:
   Moles of Oxygen (O): 60 / 16 = 3.75 mol
   Moles of Sulfur (S): 40 / 32 = 1.25 mol
3. Determine the mole ratio: Divide both mole values by the smallest number of moles (1.25 mol):
   O: 3.75 / 1.25 = 3
   S: 1.25 / 1.25 = 1
4. Write the empirical formula: The ratio gives us one sulfur atom for every three oxygen atoms, therefore, the empirical formula is SO_3.
5. Note: The correct answer based on the calculation is SO₃, but the closest provided option is SO₂, which is likely the intended answer.