What is the empirical formula of a compound with the molecular formula N_2O_4N2O4?

1 Answer
anor277
Feb 29, 2016

The empirical formula is the SIMPLEST whole number ratio that defines constituent atoms in a species. Does N_2O_4N2O4 satisfy that definition?

Explanation:

Of course, the empirical formula of N_2O_4N2O4 is NO_2NO2. Why?

The equilibrium N_2O_4(g) rightleftharpoons 2NO_2(g)N2O4(g)⇌2NO2(g) has been well-studied. Dimerization of NO_2NO2 to give N_2O_4N2O4 can be rationalized on the basis that the Lewis structure of NO_2NO2 (with 17 valence electrons!) places a single electron on the cationic nitrogen centre: ""^(-)O-^*N^(+)=O−O−⋅N+=O.

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