How Many Molecules Are in 3.21 Moles of Dicarbon Hexahydride (Ethane)?

Introduction to Molecular Counting

When discussing molecular compounds, it is essential to understand the concept of a mole. A mole is a fundamental unit of measurement in chemistry that represents 6.022 × 1023 entities, which could be atoms, molecules, or ions—much like a dozen is 12 items. In this article, we delve into the specific case of dicarbon hexahydride, or ethane (C2H6), and calculate the number of molecules present in 3.21 moles of this compound.

Understanding the Chemical Formula

Ethane (C2H6) is a simple alkane consisting of two carbon atoms and six hydrogen atoms. The smallest particle of ethane is a molecule, and it follows that one mole of ethane contains exactly 6.022 × 1023 molecules.

Dimensional Analysis in Chemistry

Dimensional analysis is a powerful tool used in chemistry to convert between different units of measurement. Let's apply this methodology to determine the number of molecules in 3.21 moles of ethane.

Step-by-step calculation:

1 mole of ethane 6.022 × 1023 molecules 3.21 mol C2H6 × (6.022×1023) molecules C2H6/1 mol C2H6 1.93×1024 molecules C2H6

This calculation is carried out to three significant figures, resulting in approximately 1.93×1024 molecules of ethane in 3.21 moles.

Avogadro's Number and Its Significance

Avogadro's number (NA) is a fundamental constant in chemistry, and it does not just apply to ethane. One mole of any substance contains Avogadro's number of particles. Regardless of the substance, whether it is carbon, hydrogen, or any other element or compound, the count of elementary units remains the same.

Conclusion

In summary, for 3.21 moles of ethane (C2H6), there are approximately 1.93×1024 molecules. This calculation exemplifies the power and consistency of the mole concept in chemistry, making it a crucial tool for both theoretical and practical applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Avogadro's number?

Avogadro's number is the number of atoms, molecules, or ions in one mole of a substance. It is defined as 6.022 × 1023.

Why is understanding moles important in chemistry?

Understanding moles is essential in chemistry because it provides a standardized way to measure and compare the amounts of different substances, facilitating calculations and experiments.

Can the mole concept be applied to all substances?

Yes, the mole concept is universally applicable to all substances, from simple elements to complex molecules. It is used in stoichiometry, thermodynamics, and various other areas of chemistry.