Chapter 8.1, Problem 4LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The difference between a molecule of NO and ${\text{N}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$ needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction: Molecular formula is a way to express the chemical composition of a molecule. In this formula, all the atoms present in the molecule are written in their symbolic representation. For example, the molecular formula of sodium chloride is NaCl.

Explanation of Solution

Both molecular formulas contain N and O atoms. In NO, one nitrogen atom is bonded to one oxygen atom, and in ${\text{N}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$ , two nitrogen atoms are bonded to one oxygen atom. Thus, in NO, the ratio of nitrogen to the oxygen atom is 1:1, and in ${\text{N}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$, the ratio of nitrogen to the oxygen atom is 2:1.

Therefore, the difference between the two is the ratio of the number of atoms of N and O atoms.