Chapter 9, Problem 88A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: One of the two compounds that contain tin and chlorine has the formula ${\text{SnCl}}_{\text{2}}$

. If the ratio of masses of chlorine combined with 1 g of tin in the two compounds is 2:1, then the formula of the second compound is to be determined.

Concept Introduction: The law of multiple proportions states that, when two elements combine to form more than one compound, then the masses of the second element which combine with a fixed mass of the first element will always bear a simple whole number ratio.

Answer to Problem 88A

The formula of the second compound is ${\text{SnCl}}_{\text{4}}$ .

Explanation of Solution

Given that the ratio of masses of chlorine combined with 1 g of tin in the two compounds is 2:1. In ${\text{SnCl}}_{\text{2}}$ , the ratio of the mass of tin to chlorine is 1: 0.5. the ratio of the mass of tin to chlorine in ${\text{SnCl}}_{\text{4}}$ is 1:1.1.

That means, the ratio of masses of chlorine in ${\text{SnCl}}_{\text{4}}$ and ${\text{SnCl}}_{\text{2}}$ is 2:1.