Math Problem Statement

How do I calculate molar mass?

Solution

To calculate the molar mass of a substance, you need to sum the atomic masses of all the atoms in its chemical formula. Here’s the step-by-step process:

Steps:

  1. Write the chemical formula of the compound.
  2. Determine the atomic mass of each element in the compound from the periodic table. These are usually given in atomic mass units (amu).
  3. Multiply the atomic mass of each element by the number of atoms of that element in the compound.
  4. Add the results together to get the total molar mass, expressed in grams per mole (g/mol).

Example: Calculate the molar mass of H₂O (water)

  1. Chemical formula: H₂O
  2. Atomic masses (from the periodic table):
    • Hydrogen (H) ≈ 1.01 g/mol
    • Oxygen (O) ≈ 16.00 g/mol
  3. Multiply by the number of atoms:
    • For H: 1.01 g/mol × 2 = 2.02 g/mol
    • For O: 16.00 g/mol × 1 = 16.00 g/mol
  4. Add them:
    • Total molar mass of H₂O = 2.02 g/mol + 16.00 g/mol = 18.02 g/mol

So, the molar mass of water (H₂O) is 18.02 g/mol.

Would you like further details or have any questions?


Here are some related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. How is molar mass used in stoichiometry?
  2. What is the difference between molar mass and molecular mass?
  3. How would you calculate the molar mass of a compound with a polyatomic ion?
  4. How does the molar mass of isotopes differ from the average atomic mass?
  5. How can molar mass help in converting between grams and moles?

Tip: Always ensure to account for all atoms in the chemical formula when calculating molar mass!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Stoichiometry
Atomic Mass
Molar Mass

Formulas

Molar mass = Sum of (atomic mass of element × number of atoms in the chemical formula)

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12