Understanding Equivalent Weight
The equivalent weight of a compound can be calculated using the formula:
- Equivalent Weight = Molar Mass / n
- Where n is the number of moles of reactive species (like H+ ions or electrons) produced or consumed in a reaction.
Given Data
- The oxide contains 32% oxygen by weight.
Step 1: Determine the Weight of Oxygen
- The molar mass of oxygen (O) = 16 g/mol.
- Therefore, in 100 g of the oxide:
- Weight of Oxygen = 32 g.
- Weight of Metal = 100 g - 32 g = 68 g.
Step 2: Calculate the Molar Mass of the Metal
- Let the molar mass of the metal be M g/mol.
- From the weight of the metal:
- M = 68 g.
Step 3: Determine the Molar Mass of the Oxide
- The molar mass of the oxide = Weight of Metal + Weight of Oxygen
- Molar Mass of Oxide = 68 g + 16 g = 84 g/mol.
Step 4: Calculate the Equivalent Weight
- For metal oxides, the equivalent weight is typically calculated as:
- Equivalent Weight = Molar Mass of Oxide / n
- For most metal oxides, n = 1 (as one oxide ion is released).
- Therefore, Equivalent Weight = 84 g/mol / 1 = 84 g.
Conclusion
- The equivalent weight of the oxide is 84 g.
This calculation can help in various chemical applications, including stoichiometry and titration. Understanding these concepts is crucial for practical chemistry.