1. What is Percentage Yield of Carbon?

Definition: This calculator determines the percentage yield of carbon in an organic compound based on the mass of CO2 formed during combustion.

Purpose: It helps chemists and researchers analyze the carbon content in organic compounds through combustion analysis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( C\% \) — Percentage yield of carbon
• \( M_{CO2} \) — Mass of CO2 formed (kg)
• \( M \) — Mass of the organic compound (kg)
• 12/44 — Ratio of atomic mass of carbon to molecular mass of CO2

Explanation: The formula calculates what percentage of the original compound's mass was carbon by measuring the CO2 produced.

3. Importance of Carbon Yield Calculation

Details: Accurate carbon percentage determination is crucial for understanding molecular composition, purity analysis, and empirical formula determination.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the mass of CO2 formed (in kg) and the original mass of the organic compound (in kg). Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the ratio 12/44 used?
A: This represents the mass fraction of carbon in CO2 (12 g/mol C ÷ 44 g/mol CO2).

Q2: What units should I use for mass?
A: The calculator uses kilograms, but any consistent mass unit can be used as the units cancel out in the ratio.

Q3: Does this work for all organic compounds?
A: Yes, as long as complete combustion occurs and all carbon converts to CO2.

Q4: What if other elements are present?
A: This calculation only determines carbon content. Separate analyses are needed for other elements.

Q5: How accurate is this method?
A: Very accurate when performed correctly, typically within 0.1-0.5% of actual values.