Question

The empirical formula of the chlorophyll molecule is:

• A. \(\mathrm{C_{55} H_{72} O_{5} N_{4} Mg}\)
• B. \(\mathrm{C_{55} H_{70} O_{6} N_{4} Mg}\)
• C. \(\mathrm{C_{50} H_{72} O_{5} N_{4} Mg}\)
• D. \(\mathrm{C_{50} H_{70} O_{6} N_{4} Mg}\)

Hint:

Chlorophyll a formula: \(\mathrm{C_{55} H_{72} O_{5} N_{4} Mg}\).
Chlorophyll b formula: \(\mathrm{C_{55} H_{70} O_{6} N_{4} Mg}\).
Contains Mg in the porphyrin ring.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question tests knowledge of chlorophyll structure.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The empirical formula of chlorophyll a is: \[ \mathrm{C_{55} H_{72} O_{5} N_{4} Mg} \] Chlorophyll a has: - 55 carbon atoms - 72 hydrogen atoms - 5 oxygen atoms - 4 nitrogen atoms - 1 magnesium atom Thus, option (A) is correct. Option B has \(\mathrm{C_{55} H_{70} O_{6} N_{4} Mg}\) (different H and O). Option C and D have \(\mathrm{C_{50}}\) (incorrect carbon count). Thus, the correct formula is \(\mathrm{C_{55} H_{72} O_{5} N_{4} Mg}\).

Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, the empirical formula of chlorophyll is \(\mathrm{C_{55} H_{72} O_{5} N_{4} Mg}\), which corresponds to option (A).
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