Here is how to calculate the weight percent carbon in CO2.
(Atomic Mass: C = 12.0 amu     O = 16.0 amu)


1. Find the mass of C in 1 mole of CO2.

1 x 12.0 g/mol = 12.0 grams

2. Find the total mass of 1 mole of CO2.

1 x 12.0 =

12.0 grams

2 x 16.0 =

32.0 grams

Total =

44.0 grams

3. Divide the grams of C by the gram-molecular weight and multiply by 100.

Weight % C =
12.0 g C
44.0 g CO2
x 100 = 27.3%

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