Writing Ionic Formulas

Front

What is an ionic formula?

Back

An ionic formula represents the ratio of ions in a compound, showing the total number of positive and negative charges that balance each other.

Front

How do you determine the formula for an ionic compound?

Back

To determine the formula, identify the charges of the cation and anion, then combine them in a ratio that results in a neutral compound.

Front

What is the charge of lithium (Li) in ionic compounds?

Back

Li has a charge of +1 in ionic compounds.

Front

What is the charge of phosphate (PO₄) in ionic compounds?

Back

Phosphate (PO₄) has a charge of -3 in ionic compounds.

Front

What is the formula for the ionic compound formed by Li⁺ and P³⁻?

Back

The formula is Li₃P.

Front

What is the charge of potassium (K) in ionic compounds?

Back

K has a charge of +1 in ionic compounds.

Front

What is the formula for the ionic compound formed by K⁺ and PO₄³⁻?

Back

The formula is K₃PO₄.

Front

What is the charge of sodium (Na) in ionic compounds?

Back

Na has a charge of +1 in ionic compounds.

Front

What is the formula for the ionic compound formed by Na⁺ and S²⁻?

Back

The formula is Na₂S.

Front

What is the charge of borate (B₄O₇) in ionic compounds?

Back

Borate (B₄O₇) has a charge of -2 in ionic compounds.