What is the law of multiple proportions?

Law of multiple proportions, states that when two elements combine with each other to form more than one compound, the weights of one element that combine with a fixed weight of the other are in a ratio of small whole numbers.

Example: let us assume 2 molecules CO (carbon monoxide) and CO2  (carbon dioxide).

CO = 12gm of carbon + 16 gram of Oxygen. 

CO2 = 12gm carbon + 32 gram of Oxygen.

The ratio of the mass of oxygen in the  CO:CO₂ is 16: 2 = 1:2.

Thus, the law of multiple proportions is proved.

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Updated on: 10-Oct-2022

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