Ch.2 - Atoms, Molecules, and Ions

Problem 62d

Chapter 2, Problem 62d

Predict the chemical formulas of the compounds formed by the following pairs of ions: (d) Ca2+ and ClO3-

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Identify the charges on each ion: Calcium ion (Ca^{2+}) has a charge of +2, and chlorate ion (ClO_3^{-}) has a charge of -1.

To form a neutral compound, the total positive charge must balance the total negative charge.

Determine the ratio of ions needed to balance the charges. Since Ca^{2+} has a +2 charge and ClO_3^{-} has a -1 charge, you will need two ClO_3^{-} ions to balance one Ca^{2+} ion.

Write the chemical formula by placing the cation first followed by the anion, using subscripts to indicate the number of each ion needed. The formula will be Ca(ClO_3)_2.

Ensure the compound is neutral by checking that the total positive charge (+2 from one Ca^{2+}) equals the total negative charge (-2 from two ClO_3^{-}).

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed when positively charged ions (cations) and negatively charged ions (anions) combine. The electrostatic attraction between these oppositely charged ions results in the formation of a neutral compound. Understanding the charges of the ions involved is crucial for predicting the correct formula of the resulting compound.

Charge Balance

In ionic compounds, the total positive charge must balance the total negative charge to achieve electrical neutrality. For example, if a cation has a charge of +2, it will require two anions with a charge of -1 each to balance the charges. This principle is essential for determining the correct stoichiometry of the ions in the compound.

Polyatomic Ions

Polyatomic ions are ions that consist of two or more atoms bonded together, carrying a net charge. In this case, ClO3- (chlorate) is a polyatomic ion with a -1 charge. Recognizing polyatomic ions and their charges is important for accurately predicting the formulas of compounds formed with other ions, such as Ca2+.

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