Step 1: Understand the relationship between molecular weight and density
At STP (Standard Temperature and Pressure), the density of a gas is directly related to its molar mass. The greater the molar mass, the higher the density.
Step 2: Molar masses of the gases
The molar masses of the gases are as follows:
- \( \text{O}_2 \): \( 32 \, \text{g/mol} \),
- \( \text{N}_2 \): \( 28 \, \text{g/mol} \),
- \( \text{CO}_2 \): \( 44 \, \text{g/mol} \),
- \( \text{H}_2 \): \( 2 \, \text{g/mol} \).
Step 3: Compare the densities
- \( \text{CO}_2 \) has the highest molar mass, which means it will have the highest density at STP.
Answer: The correct answer is option (3): \( \text{CO}_2 \).