Calculating the Empirical Formula of Naproxen (Aleve)

Understanding the Calculation Process

In order to determine the empirical formula of a compound, we need to know the percentage composition of each element present in the compound. From the given data, we have the mass percentages of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in naproxen.

Step 1: Calculate the number of moles of each element based on their mass percentages. This is done by dividing the mass percentage by the molar mass of the element.

Step 2: Determine the simplest whole number ratio of the moles of each element to find the empirical formula.

In the case of naproxen, we found that the ratio of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen is C14H14O3, which represents the empirical formula of the compound.

By following these steps, we can accurately determine the empirical formula of any compound based on its elemental composition.