Ammonium and Sulfite Ions

This video tutorial explains how to write the formula for ammonium sulfite by understanding the charges of the ammonium and sulfite polyatomic ions. It covers the need to balance these charges to form an ionic compound, resulting in the formula (NH4)2SO3. The video emphasizes the importance of memorizing or referencing the charges of polyatomic ions to achieve the correct chemical formula.

What type of ions are ammonium and sulfite?

• Monatomic ions

• Polyatomic ions

• Covalent ions

• Metallic ions

What is the charge of the ammonium ion?

• 2+

• 1-

• 1+

• 2-

What is the chemical formula for the sulfite ion?

• SO3 1-

• SO3 2-

• SO4 2-

• SO2 2-

Why do we need two ammonium ions to balance the charge of one sulfite ion?

• Because ammonium has a 1+ charge and sulfite has a 2- charge

• Because sulfite has a 2+ charge

• Because sulfite has a 1- charge

• Because ammonium has a 2+ charge

How do you represent two ammonium ions in the formula?

• 2NH4

• (NH4)2

• NH4 2

• NH4-2

What is the final chemical formula for ammonium sulfite?

• NH4SO3

• (NH4)2SO3

• (NH4)2(SO3)2

• NH4(SO3)2

What is the key takeaway for writing the formula of ammonium sulfite?

• Use covalent bonding

• Use only monatomic ions

• Memorize the charges and balance them

• Ignore the charges