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Multiple Choice
The silicate ion is the silicon version of the carbonate ion. Based on this description, provide the structure of the silicate ion.
A
SiO34-
B
SiO33-
C
SiO32-
D
SiO22-
E
SiO23-
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic structure of the silicate ion. The silicate ion is similar to the carbonate ion, which is CO3^2-. This means the silicate ion will have a similar structure but with silicon replacing carbon.
Identify the chemical formula for the silicate ion. The silicate ion is typically represented as SiO3^2-. This indicates that the ion consists of one silicon atom and three oxygen atoms, carrying a -2 charge.
Visualize the structure of the silicate ion. The silicon atom is at the center, surrounded by three oxygen atoms. The charge of -2 suggests that there are two extra electrons distributed among the oxygen atoms, contributing to the overall negative charge.
Consider the oxidation states. Silicon typically has an oxidation state of +4, while oxygen has an oxidation state of -2. In the silicate ion, the total oxidation state should balance to match the charge of the ion.
Review the options provided. The correct structure for the silicate ion is SiO3^2-, which matches the typical representation and charge of the silicate ion.