1. Assume a 100g Sample:

* This makes the calculations easier. We have 46.8 g of Si and 53.2 g of O.

2. Convert Grams to Moles:

* Divide the mass of each element by its molar mass:

* Si: 46.8 g / 28.09 g/mol = 1.66 mol

* O: 53.2 g / 16.00 g/mol = 3.33 mol

3. Find the Mole Ratio:

* Divide each mole value by the smallest mole value (1.66 mol):

* Si: 1.66 mol / 1.66 mol = 1

* O: 3.33 mol / 1.66 mol = 2

4. Write the Empirical Formula:

* The empirical formula is SiO₂.