Ionic Compound Formulas

Front

What is an ionic compound?

Back

An ionic compound is a chemical compound composed of ions held together by electrostatic forces termed ionic bonding. It typically forms between metals and nonmetals.

Front

How do you determine the formula of an ionic compound?

Back

To determine the formula of an ionic compound, balance the total positive and negative charges of the ions. The subscripts in the formula represent the number of each ion needed to achieve electrical neutrality.

Front

What is the charge of a strontium ion?

Back

The charge of a strontium ion (Sr) is 2+, meaning it has lost two electrons.

Front

What is the charge of an iodide ion?

Back

The charge of an iodide ion (I) is -1, meaning it has gained one electron.

Front

What is the formula for the ionic compound formed by strontium and iodide?

Back

The formula is SrI₂, as one strontium ion (2+) combines with two iodide ions (-1) to balance the charges.

Front

What is the charge of a magnesium ion?

Back

The charge of a magnesium ion (Mg) is 2+, meaning it has lost two electrons.

Front

What is the charge of a chloride ion?

Back

The charge of a chloride ion (Cl) is -1, meaning it has gained one electron.

Front

What is the formula for the ionic compound formed by magnesium and chloride?

Back

The formula is MgCl₂, as one magnesium ion (2+) combines with two chloride ions (-1) to balance the charges.

Front

What is the charge of a barium ion?

Back

The charge of a barium ion (Ba) is 2+, meaning it has lost two electrons.

Front

What is the charge of a phosphide ion?

Back

The charge of a phosphide ion (P) is 3-, meaning it has gained three electrons.