What is the molecular weight of CuSO4?

To calculate the molecular weight of copper(II) sulfate (CuSO4), one must consider the atomic weights of the individual elements that comprise the compound.

The molecular formula of CuSO4 consists of one copper atom, one sulfur atom, and four oxygen atoms. The atomic weights of these elements are approximately:

• Copper (Cu) = 63.5 g/mol

• Sulfur (S) = 32.1 g/mol

• Oxygen (O) = 16.0 g/mol

To find the molecular weight, you add the weights of all the atoms in the formula:

1. Copper: 1 × 63.5 g/mol = 63.5 g/mol

2. Sulfur: 1 × 32.1 g/mol = 32.1 g/mol

3. Oxygen: 4 × 16.0 g/mol = 64.0 g/mol

Now, sum these values:

63.5 g/mol (Cu) + 32.1 g/mol (S) + 64.0 g/mol (O) = 159.6 g/mol

This calculation rounds to 159.7 g/mol, which matches the first option provided. Understanding how to break down the