In this experiment, you will determine the empirical formula for a compound using experimental data. in this lab, the original substances, kclox and mno2, are heated and a reaction takes place. the original substance, kclox is changed into kcl and oxygen. the mno2 is a catalyst that does not enter into the reaction, but allows the reaction to take place.
Using this information one can calculate the mole ratio of kcl to o and thus determine the empirical formula for the compound.