Chapter 5, Problem 39E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

For the given table, the missing number of ${\text{C}}_2{\text{H}}_3{\text{O}}_2{}^{-}$ units, carbon atoms, hydrogen atoms, oxygen atoms and metal atoms are to be determined.

Concept introduction:

In a chemical formula the relative number of each type atom in the compound is represented by the subscript.

When same kind of more than one group are present, their formula can be set off in parenthesis with subscript.

Subscript indicates the number of units of the group.

In order to determine the total number of each type of the atom that are present in the group within parenthesis, multiply the subscript outside the parenthesis by the subscript for each of the atom inside the parenthesis.