Question

Apply How many moles of \(\mathrm{K}, \mathrm{C},\) and 0 atoms are there in 1 \(\mathrm{mol}\) of \(\mathrm{K}_{2} \mathrm{C}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{4} ?\)

Short answer

In 1 mole of \(K_2C_2O_4\), there are 2 moles of potassium (K), 2 moles of carbon (C), and 4 moles of oxygen (O).

Step-by-step solution

Identify the mole-to-atom ratios for the compound

In the given molecular formula, K₂C₂O₄, there are 2 potassium atoms (K), 2 carbon atoms (C), and 4 oxygen atoms (O).

Apply the mole ratios to find the moles of each atom

If we have one mole of potassium oxalate (K₂C₂O₄), the ratio of moles for each element is directly proportional to the number of atoms within the compound. Thus, for one mole of K₂C₂O₄, there are 2 moles of K, 2 moles of C, and 4 moles of O.

Write the final answer

Upon following the mole-to-atom ratio of the compound, we find that within 1 mole of potassium oxalate (K₂C₂O₄), there are: - 2 moles of potassium (K) - 2 moles of carbon (C) - 4 moles of oxygen (O)

Key concepts

Molecular Formula

The molecular formula of a substance provides us with essential insights into its composition. It tells us the exact number of each type of atom present in a molecule, which is crucial for understanding the identity and properties of the compound. For instance, the molecular formula for potassium oxalate is \( \mathrm{K}_{2} \mathrm{C}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{4} \). This formula denotes the presence of two potassium (\( \mathrm{K} \)) atoms, two carbon (\( \mathrm{C} \)) atoms, and four oxygen (\( \mathrm{O} \)) atoms in every individual molecule of potassium oxalate.
By decoding this information, chemists can understand the atomic makeup of the molecule and predict how it will interact with other substances. The molecular formula helps identify the chemical pathways and reactions the compound can partake in. Thus, knowing the molecular formula is the first step towards better understanding the substance's behavior in chemical reactions.

Stoichiometry

Stoichiometry is a key concept in chemistry that involves the calculation of reactants and products in chemical reactions. It uses the mole concept, which is a bridge between the microscopic world of atoms and the macroscopic world, where gases, solids, and liquids are observed. Understanding stoichiometry allows chemists to predict how much of each substance is consumed or produced in a reaction.
To apply stoichiometry, one must understand the mole ratios derived from the compounds' molecular formulas. For example, the molecular formula of potassium oxalate (\( \mathrm{K}_{2} \mathrm{C}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{4} \)) tells us that one mole of this substance contains 2 moles of \( \mathrm{K} \), 2 moles of \( \mathrm{C} \), and 4 moles of \( \mathrm{O} \). This mole ratio can be used to calculate the amounts needed or produced in chemical reactions involving potassium oxalate.

• Using stoichiometry, chemists can balance chemical equations.
• It helps determine the limiting reactants in a reaction.
• Stoichiometry is essential for calculating yields of chemical reactions.

Chemical Compounds

Chemical compounds are substances formed when two or more elements are chemically bonded together. These compounds can exhibit different properties and compositions than their constituent elements. The structure and nature of the chemical bonds determine the compound's properties and behavior.
Potassium oxalate (\( \mathrm{K}_{2} \mathrm{C}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{4} \)) is an example of a complex chemical compound formed by the elements potassium, carbon, and oxygen. It showcases how these different atoms interact to form a stable, distinct entity with unique characteristics such as reactivity, solubility, and crystal formation.

• The bonds within chemical compounds can be ionic, covalent, or metallic.
• Understanding the composition of a compound helps in predicting its chemical behavior and possible reactions.
• Compounds are essential in various applications, from industrial processes to biological systems.

Understanding chemical compounds and their compositions is vital in fields such as chemistry, materials science, and pharmaceuticals, where the behavior of substances under different conditions is crucial for innovation and application.