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  • CO2 vs. SO2: Understanding Density and Molar Mass
    You're actually comparing apples and oranges here! The statement that 22.4 L of CO2 is lighter than SO2 is incorrect. Here's why:

    * Volume vs. Mass: 22.4 L refers to the volume of a gas at standard temperature and pressure (STP). Volume is a measure of space occupied, not mass.

    * Molar Mass: The mass of a substance is determined by its molar mass. CO2 has a molar mass of 44 g/mol, while SO2 has a molar mass of 64 g/mol. This means that a mole of SO2 is heavier than a mole of CO2.

    * Equal Volumes, Different Masses: While 22.4 L represents the volume of one mole of any ideal gas at STP, the mass of one mole of CO2 is less than the mass of one mole of SO2.

    In conclusion: 22.4 L of CO2 does not have a lower mass than SO2. SO2 is denser and heavier than CO2 because it has a higher molar mass.

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