To determine the molecular mass of sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), we need to look at the atomic masses of each element in the compound and then sum them up based on their quantities in the formula. Let's break it down step by step.
Understanding the Components
Sulfuric acid is composed of three different elements: hydrogen (H), sulfur (S), and oxygen (O). The chemical formula H₂SO₄ indicates that there are:
- 2 hydrogen atoms
- 1 sulfur atom
- 4 oxygen atoms
Atomic Masses of the Elements
Next, we need to know the atomic masses of these elements, which can be found on the periodic table:
- Hydrogen (H): approximately 1.01 g/mol
- Sulfur (S): approximately 32.07 g/mol
- Oxygen (O): approximately 16.00 g/mol
Calculating the Molecular Mass
Now, we can calculate the molecular mass of sulfuric acid by multiplying the atomic mass of each element by the number of atoms present in the formula and then summing these values:
- For hydrogen: 2 atoms × 1.01 g/mol = 2.02 g/mol
- For sulfur: 1 atom × 32.07 g/mol = 32.07 g/mol
- For oxygen: 4 atoms × 16.00 g/mol = 64.00 g/mol
Now, we add these values together:
Total molecular mass of H₂SO₄ = 2.02 g/mol + 32.07 g/mol + 64.00 g/mol
Total = 98.09 g/mol
Final Result
Thus, the molecular mass of sulfuric acid is approximately 98.09 g/mol. This value is essential in various chemical calculations, including stoichiometry, where you might need to convert between moles and grams in reactions involving sulfuric acid.