Question

The mass ratio of \(\mathrm{H}: \mathrm{O}\) in a bottle of water is \(1: 8 .\) Predict the mass ratio of water in 10 bottles of water.

Short answer

The mass ratio of hydrogen to oxygen remains 1:8 for 10 bottles of water.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Mass Ratio

We are given that the mass ratio of hydrogen (H) to oxygen (O) in a bottle of water is 1:8. This means that for every 1 unit of mass of hydrogen, there are 8 units of mass of oxygen.

Mass Ratio in a Single Bottle

The mass ratio for a single bottle of water remains the same as given, which is H:O = 1:8. This indicates that in any sample of water, regardless of the amount, the proportion by mass between hydrogen and oxygen is consistent.

Predicting Mass Ratio in Multiple Bottles

If the mass ratio of H:O is consistent in one bottle, it will also be the same across multiple bottles as these ratios are intrinsic to the substance's composition. Thus, in 10 bottles, the mass ratio H:O remains the same as 1:8.

Key concepts

Mass Ratio

When we talk about mass ratio, especially in the context of chemistry, we are referring to the comparison of the masses of each element present in a compound. It defines how much of each element is present relative to the others involved. In our example with water, the mass ratio of hydrogen to oxygen is 1:8. This tells us that for every part (or gram) of hydrogen in water, there will be 8 parts of oxygen. This is because the oxygen atom is significantly heavier than the hydrogen atom. The mass ratio is a fixed value for a given compound and doesn't change irrespective of the sample size or quantity you are examining.

This concept helps in understanding and predicting how different elements are combined in compounds. Simply put, when you ponder about how heavy one part of a compound is in comparison to another, it is the mass ratio that you are thinking about.

Chemical Composition

Chemical composition refers to the kinds of atoms that comprise a chemical compound or substance, as well as their proportions. It is expressed in terms of the molecular or empirical formula. In water, identified chemically as H₂O, the chemical composition consists of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.

Within the scope of stoichiometry and mass ratios, it's crucial to understand that the chemical composition of a substance dictates its mass ratio. With water, the molecular structure reveals why the mass ratio of hydrogen to oxygen is 1:8; because each oxygen atom (with a higher atomic mass) combines with two lighter hydrogen atoms, resulting in this consistent ratio.

Understanding chemical composition allows us to predict how elements will react or bond to form new substances. This concept is the backbone of chemical equations and reactions.

Predicting Ratios

Predicting ratios is about understanding and being able to foresee the mass ratios of elements in compounds, no matter the sample size. If you know the consistent mass ratio of a compound, like the 1:8 ratio for hydrogen and oxygen in water, you can predict this ratio will be present regardless of how much water you have.

The process of predicting these ratios requires a solid understanding of the compound's chemical composition. Once you know the ratio in a single unit (like a bottle of water), that ratio is scalable. Thus, for 10 bottles, the mass ratio will still be 1:8. This is because such ratios are intrinsic, meaning they are inherent and an unchangeable characteristic of the compound. By applying this principle, chemists can accurately predict the outcomes of reactions or the proportions needed in various situations.

• Mass ratios do not change with the amount of substance.
• Consistency in mass ratios is fundamental in chemist's predictions.

In essence, predicting ratios helps in planning, synthesizing, and balancing chemical reactions efficiently.