Question

If hydrogen is 14% by weight in CH3(OH)x(NH3)y, then what is the possible value of x*y?

(a) 6

(b) 12

(c) 18

(d) 24

This question was addressed to me by my college professor while I was bunking the class.

This interesting question is from Analyses of Multicomponent Solutions and Mixtures topic in division Moles, Density & Concentration of Basic Chemical Engineering

Answer 1

The correct choice is (a) 6

To explain I would say: Let the weight of compound be 100 g, => weight of hydrogen = 14 g, => 3y + x + 3 = 14 => 3y + x = 11, => and 12 + 14 + 16x + 14y = 100, => 8x + 7y = 37, solving both equations we get x = 2 and y = 3, => x*y = 6.