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Which of the following could be an empirical formula?

  • A. C4H8
  • B. C2H6
  • C. CH
  • D. C3H6
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: An empirical formula represents the simplest whole-number ratio of atoms in a compound. For a hydrocarbon compound consisting of carbon and hydrogen, the empirical formula should have the simplest ratio of carbon to hydrogen. Choice C, 'CH,' is the correct empirical formula as it represents a 1:1 ratio of carbon to hydrogen atoms, indicating the simplest ratio. Choices A, B, and D have multiple atoms of carbon and hydrogen, which do not represent the simplest whole-number ratio. Therefore, 'CH' is the empirical formula that best fits the definition.