Question

The following diagram represents the collection of CO2 and H2O molecules formed by complete combustion of a hydrocarbon.
What is the empirical formula of the hydrocarbon? Express your answer as a chemical formula.

Answer 1

The correct answer to this question is this: CO2+H2O ---------->  H2CO3
The reaction looks something like this:
CxHy + O2 ---> 4 CO2 + 8 H2O 

What is the value of x and y?

4 C's on the right.. need 4 on the left 
16 H's on the right.. need 16 on the left... 
C4H16 
and in lowest whole number ratios.. ie.. the empirical formula... 
CH4. 

4 CH4 + 8 O2 ---> 4 CO2 + 8 H2O