Multiple Choice
Na reacts with element X to form an ionic compound with the formula Na₃X. Based on this information, what is the likely formula for the ionic compound formed between Al and X?
3. Chemical Reactions
Writing Ionic Compounds
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What is the chemical formula for zinc hydrogen phosphate?
A
Zn2HPO4
B
Zn2(HPO4)2
C
ZnHPO4
D
ZnHPO4
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the ions involved: Zinc (Zn) typically forms a +2 cation, Zn²⁺, and hydrogen phosphate is the anion, HPO₄²⁻.
Determine the charges of the ions: Zinc has a charge of +2, and hydrogen phosphate has a charge of -2.
Balance the charges: Since both ions have charges that are numerically equal but opposite, one Zn²⁺ ion will balance with one HPO₄²⁻ ion.
Write the chemical formula: Combine the ions in a 1:1 ratio to form the neutral compound ZnHPO₄.
Verify the formula: Ensure that the total positive charge from zinc and the total negative charge from hydrogen phosphate cancel each other out, resulting in a neutral compound.
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