What is the molar mass of H3C6H5O7?

Understand the Problem

The question is asking for the molar mass of the compound H3C6H5O7, which is citric acid. To find the molar mass, we need to calculate the total mass based on the number of each type of atom present in the molecular formula.

Answer

$187 \, \text{g/mol}$

Steps to Solve

Identify the atoms in the compound

In the formula $H_3C_6H_5O_7$, we identify the types of atoms and their quantities:

Hydrogen (H): 3
Carbon (C): 6
Oxygen (O): 7

Use atomic masses to find molar mass

Next, we find the atomic masses of each element (in grams per mole):

Hydrogen (H): approximately 1 g/mol
Carbon (C): approximately 12 g/mol
Oxygen (O): approximately 16 g/mol

Calculate the mass contributed by each type of atom

Now we calculate the total mass contributed by each type of atom:

Hydrogen: $$ \text{Mass from H} = 3 \times 1 = 3 , \text{g/mol} $$
Carbon: $$ \text{Mass from C} = 6 \times 12 = 72 , \text{g/mol} $$
Oxygen: $$ \text{Mass from O} = 7 \times 16 = 112 , \text{g/mol} $$

Sum the contributions of all atoms

Finally, we add the mass contributions from each atom to find the total molar mass of citric acid:

$$ \text{Molar Mass} = 3 + 72 + 112 = 187 , \text{g/mol} $$

The molar mass of citric acid, $H_3C_6H_5O_7$, is $187 , \text{g/mol}$.

More Information

Citric acid is a weak organic acid that occurs naturally in citrus fruits. It's often used as a preservative and flavoring agent in food and beverages.

Tips

A common mistake is miscounting the number of atoms in the molecular formula. It's crucial to carefully consider the formula parts to avoid errors in the total calculation.
Another mistake is using incorrect atomic masses, so always refer to a reliable source for atomic weights.

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